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<rss version="2.0"><channel><title>Thailand news</title><link>https://aseannow.com/rss/44-thailand-news.xml/</link><description>National and regional news from all around Thailand</description><language>en</language><item><title>People are saying that Trump has ruined the World Cup</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1392814-people-are-saying-that-trump-has-ruined-the-world-cup/?do=findComment&comment=20528942]]></link><description><![CDATA[Obviously another old American who knows sod all about Football and is humourless.  In football, the wearing of a scarf indicates affiliation to a club or side.  Your reference to "keffiyehs" indicates you don't know what that is. Its a word you found. Why the &lt;deleted&gt; would you wear a keffiyeh with a scarf. Its nonsense. And your reference to the wearing of yarmulkes seems rather anti-Semitic. You question why a Jewish man or boy would be wearing their kippah to a football match. Why shouldn't they, and so what if they do.]]></description><enclosure url="https://assets.aseannow.com/forum/uploads/monthly_2026_05/gettyimages-1490275774-1024x1024.webp.e4ce2ab5e015502d41d5d949831bb62e.webp" length="68472" type="image/webp"/><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 21:00:54 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Labour Reports Farage Russia Hack Claim to Police</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395696-labour-reports-farage-russia-hack-claim-to-police/?do=findComment&comment=20528941]]></link><description>Labour has formally reported claims that Nigel Farage was targeted by Russian hackers to the Metropolitan Police and the UK's cyber security authorities, escalating a dispute over allegations first raised by Reform UK.  Get today's headlines by email   The move follows reports that Farage believed his phone, email and bank accounts may have been compromised by individuals linked to Russia. According to accounts published in the Mail on Sunday, Reform sources said concerns arose after details emerged of a &#xA3;5 million gift made to Farage by businessman Christopher Harborne. Labour chair Anna Turley has written to both the Metropolitan Police and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), asking whether they are investigating the alleged cyber intrusion. She said the matter could have implications for national security, political integrity and public confidence in democratic institutions. Reform Says Authorities Have Been ContactedReform UK said it had informed the appropriate authorities about the alleged incident, although it is not believed to have made a report to the Metropolitan Police. The party declined to comment further, saying it would be inappropriate to do so while inquiries were ongoing. According to Reform sources, Farage became concerned that information had been accessed by foreign actors after reports surfaced about the financial gift. They claimed that only four people were aware of the payment and that Farage subsequently arranged for his mobile phone to undergo forensic examination by counter-espionage specialists. Those specialists allegedly concluded that hostile actors, believed to be linked to Moscow, had used spear-phishing techniques to gain access to Farage's devices and accounts. Spear phishing involves sending targeted messages designed to trick recipients into revealing information or installing malicious software. Farage told the newspaper that the alleged actions demonstrated the security threat posed by Russia. Labour Calls for Evidence to Be SharedBoth Labour and the Conservatives have urged Reform UK to provide any evidence it possesses to the relevant security agencies. In a letter sent to Farage last week, Turley described the alleged hacking as a potentially serious criminal matter and said any evidence should be submitted for independent investigation. She later wrote directly to the Metropolitan Police and the NCSC, stating that if Reform UK had not reported the allegations, her correspondence should be treated as a formal report of what appeared, based on media accounts, to be a serious crime. Turley stressed that Labour was not taking a position on whether the alleged compromise had actually occurred, but argued that the claims warranted examination by the authorities. An NCSC spokesperson said the agency was ready to assist with any suspected cyber incident reported to it. Gift Investigation ContinuesThe hacking allegations come amid continuing scrutiny of the &#xA3;5 million gift made to Farage by Harborne in April 2024, shortly before Farage announced his candidacy in that year's general election. The payment was not included in Farage's declaration of interests and only became publicly known after it was reported by the Guardian. The Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards is investigating whether parliamentary rules were breached. Farage has maintained that the payment was a private, non-political gift and therefore did not need to be declared. He has said Reform UK examined the rules carefully and concluded there was no requirement to register the payment. Harborne has said he did not expect anything in return and described the gift as motivated by his admiration for Farage's role in achieving Brexit.  Join the discussion?   Already a member?     Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 30 May 2026 

 
View full article</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:56:49 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Myanmar Reopens Myawaddy-Mae Sot Border</title><link>https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/myanmar-reopens-myawaddy-mae-sot-border-r2077/</link><description>Thailand&#x2019;s border trade with Myanmar resumed on 28 May 2026 after Myanmar authorities unexpectedly coordinated the reopening of the Myawaddy-Mae Sot trade checkpoint following more than 10 months of closure.  Get today's headlines by email   Tak customs chief Yodphon Witchayakul said Myanmar customs officials in Myawaddy contacted Mae Sot customs officers at 2am to arrange the reopening of the second Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge crossing at Ban Wang Takhian Tai in Tha Sai Luat subdistrict, Mae Sot district, Tak province.  The crossing officially reopened on 28 May 2026, allowing Thai goods trucks to begin moving across the Moei River once again. The reopening immediately brought renewed activity to the border area, with freight vehicles seen travelling through the checkpoint.  The bridge had been closed since August 2025, severely affecting cross-border trade between Thailand and Myanmar. According to Mr Yodphon, the prolonged closure caused border trade values to fall by more than 50%.  Mr Yodphon said he met Myanmar customs officials in Myawaddy on 28 May to discuss operational details. He noted that the checkpoint may not initially reopen at full capacity but expressed confidence that the move would help improve the border economy.  Thai exporters welcomed the reopening, saying it would improve economic activity and reduce transport costs for shipments travelling deeper into Myanmar.  The Mae Sot-Myawaddy crossing is one of the most important trade routes between Thailand and Myanmar, particularly for goods transported by road. Businesses on both sides of the border have faced major disruptions during the closure period.  Manager Online reported that authorities are expected to continue discussions on operational procedures and the phased expansion of border activities in the coming weeks as trade volumes gradually recover.   Picture courtesy of Manager Online  Join the discussion?   Already a member?    Adapted by ASEAN Now MGRonline 30 May 2026</description><enclosure url="https://assets.aseannow.com/forum/uploads/monthly_2026_05/IMG_3277.png.3e27059352f3aa6534ab66eb7c462e1a.png" length="2619026" type="image/png"/><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:56:25 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Myanmar Reopens Myawaddy-Mae Sot Border</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395695-myanmar-reopens-myawaddy-mae-sot-border/?do=findComment&comment=20528940]]></link><description>Thailand&#x2019;s border trade with Myanmar resumed on 28 May 2026 after Myanmar authorities unexpectedly coordinated the reopening of the Myawaddy-Mae Sot trade checkpoint following more than 10 months of closure.  Get today's headlines by email   Tak customs chief Yodphon Witchayakul said Myanmar customs officials in Myawaddy contacted Mae Sot customs officers at 2am to arrange the reopening of the second Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge crossing at Ban Wang Takhian Tai in Tha Sai Luat subdistrict, Mae Sot district, Tak province.  The crossing officially reopened on 28 May 2026, allowing Thai goods trucks to begin moving across the Moei River once again. The reopening immediately brought renewed activity to the border area, with freight vehicles seen travelling through the checkpoint.  The bridge had been closed since August 2025, severely affecting cross-border trade between Thailand and Myanmar. According to Mr Yodphon, the prolonged closure caused border trade values to fall by more than 50%.  Mr Yodphon said he met Myanmar customs officials in Myawaddy on 28 May to discuss operational details. He noted that the checkpoint may not initially reopen at full capacity but expressed confidence that the move would help improve the border economy.  Thai exporters welcomed the reopening, saying it would improve economic activity and reduce transport costs for shipments travelling deeper into Myanmar.  The Mae Sot-Myawaddy crossing is one of the most important trade routes between Thailand and Myanmar, particularly for goods transported by road. Businesses on both sides of the border have faced major disruptions during the closure period.  Manager Online reported that authorities are expected to continue discussions on operational procedures and the phased expansion of border activities in the coming weeks as trade volumes gradually recover.   Picture courtesy of Manager Online  Join the discussion?   Already a member?    Adapted by ASEAN Now MGRonline 30 May 2026 

 
View full article</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:56:25 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Word Association - 2026</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1383425-word-association-2026/?do=findComment&comment=20528939]]></link><description>Core</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:56:16 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Technology,  Data Centers,  and Life without Parole</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395454-technology-data-centers-and-life-without-parole/?do=findComment&comment=20528938]]></link><description>c'mon ....... wef is alive and well , with blackrock head fink making the usual rounds assuring everyone (including thailand's chosen leaders) that he's got their backs.   Literally !   We've been through this before.... and the same "chosen" globos are still calling the shots .  And speaking of shots .... STILL not taken off the market and STILL no accountability .  and STILL the inflation game going full steam ahead.    a few cherry picked quotes from a few people does not a case make .    you know that  the wind , mi amigo .    the wind !</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:50:03 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Word Association - 2026</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1383425-word-association-2026/?do=findComment&comment=20528937]]></link><description>Centre</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:49:36 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>NATO Condemns Russian Drone Strike on Romanian Flats</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395694-nato-condemns-russian-drone-strike-on-romanian-flats/?do=findComment&comment=20528936]]></link><description>A Russian drone struck a residential apartment block in eastern Romania on Friday, injuring two people and prompting strong condemnation from NATO and European Union leaders after what Romanian officials described as the most serious wartime incident to affect the country since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.  Get today's headlines by email   The drone hit a high-rise building in the city of Gala&#x21B;i, close to Romania&#x2019;s border with Ukraine, causing a fire and forcing the evacuation of around 70 residents. Romanian emergency authorities said the drone&#x2019;s full explosive payload detonated upon impact, igniting a blaze on the building&#x2019;s 10th floor. Residents Injured as Building EvacuatedTwo people suffered minor injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment. Firefighters later brought the blaze under control. Romania&#x2019;s Defence Ministry said two F-16 fighter jets were scrambled after drones were detected approaching the area. Brigadier General Gheorghe Maxim said military personnel had only four minutes between detecting the drone and its impact. Officials identified the aircraft as a Geran-2 drone, known internationally as the Shahed-136. According to the ministry, the drone&#x2019;s entire explosive load exploded when it struck the building. Romania Points to Deflected Flight PathPresident Nicu&#x219;or Dan said the drone likely altered course after being hit by Ukrainian air defences over Ukrainian territory. Speaking during a visit to Gala&#x21B;i, Dan said one drone from a group of 43 incoming aircraft appeared to have been struck above the Ukrainian city of Reni, changing its trajectory before it crossed into Romania. Romanian military officials stressed that their forces face operational restrictions because they cannot fire weapons into Ukrainian airspace. Authorities also sought to reassure residents that Romania had not been deliberately targeted, describing the incident as a consequence of fighting taking place close to the border. NATO and EU Express SupportDan convened an emergency meeting of Romania&#x2019;s Supreme Defence Council and announced plans to expel Russia&#x2019;s consul in Constan&#x21B;a and close the consulate. Moscow later indicated it would respond. Romania&#x2019;s Foreign Ministry said it had requested faster delivery of anti-drone capabilities from NATO. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said the alliance stood ready to defend all allied territory and would continue strengthening its defences against drone threats. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the incident as another escalation resulting from Russia&#x2019;s war against Ukraine. Ukraine&#x2019;s Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha said the strike demonstrated that Russian aggression remained a threat to the wider Black Sea region and called for increased support for Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky later said he had spoken with Dan and pledged continued cooperation to protect against Russian threats. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the incident a serious violation of NATO airspace and reaffirmed Britain's support for Romania, Ukraine and other alliance members. Putin Questions Drone's OriginSpeaking later on Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin said he had only recently learned of the incident and suggested the drone wreckage be handed to Russia for an independent investigation. He also noted previous incidents involving Ukrainian drones entering EU countries. Romania has experienced numerous drone incursions since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The Defence Ministry says drone fragments have been discovered on Romanian territory 47 times during the war, including 12 occasions this year. The border region around Gala&#x21B;i, opposite the Ukrainian ports of Reni and Izmail on the Danube River, remains particularly vulnerable during Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure.   Join the discussion?   Already a member?     Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 30 May 2026 

 
View full article</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:48:43 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>First Lao Man Rescued From Flooded Gold Mine</title><link>https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/first-lao-man-rescued-from-flooded-gold-mine-r2076/</link><description>A Lao worker trapped inside a gold mine cave in Laos has been rescued after a major international operation involving Thai and Finnish cave diving experts. Rescue teams successfully brought one of five survivors out of the flooded tunnel at 20.40 on 29 May 2026, according to the Thailand Rescue Diver Facebook page.  Get today's headlines by email   The worker was among seven Lao labourers trapped inside a gold mine cave in Long Chaeng, Xaysomboun province, Laos, since 19 May. Heavy rain and flash flooding had swept through the mine, cutting off access and leaving the workers stranded underground.  Thai and Finnish cave diving and rescue specialists travelled to the area on 20 May to assist with the operation. On 27 May 2026, rescuers finally reached the trapped workers, who were reported to be suffering from exhaustion after spending days inside the cave system.  Following contact with the survivors, rescue teams began planning a complex extraction from the flooded mine tunnels. The latest operation successfully removed the first survivor from the cave, while four others remain underground awaiting further assessment before evacuation attempts continue.   Picture courtesy of Komchadluek  &#x201C;Kaengkaj Bongkaowong&#x201D;, head of the Metta Tham rescue team from Thailand, confirmed the rescued worker was brought out safely. He added that teams would continue assessing conditions before attempting to evacuate the remaining four survivors.  Rescuers are also continuing efforts to locate two additional workers still missing inside the cave complex. Search operations for the missing pair are expected to resume on 30 May.  The rescue operation has drawn attention due to the difficult conditions inside the flooded mine and the involvement of experienced international cave rescue specialists. The operation follows days of challenging underwater access and hazardous conditions caused by persistent flooding.  Komchadluek reported officials have not yet released further details on the rescued worker&#x2019;s medical condition. Authorities are expected to provide additional updates as rescue teams continue evacuation and search efforts in the coming days.  AQOpjYNuKUgMVWbyNK4fTeVKfAkfAgfmbtSz6U2bdOVwKEtQ4tkguwsgRmZhIqQiDLpesK8VhimY-R6QTr7WJdDDkBvt4kfCRiA5jIpWYw.mp4  Related story  Thai-divers-find-five-in-collapsed-Laos-gold-mine  Join the discussion?   Already a member?    Adapted by ASEAN Now Komchadluek 30 May 2026</description><enclosure url="https://assets.aseannow.com/forum/uploads/monthly_2026_05/IMG_3343.png.4a31169df890d2ef42ed835d32f44cb7.png" length="3314703" type="image/png"/><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:46:32 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>First Lao Man Rescued From Flooded Gold Mine</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395693-first-lao-man-rescued-from-flooded-gold-mine/?do=findComment&comment=20528935]]></link><description>A Lao worker trapped inside a gold mine cave in Laos has been rescued after a major international operation involving Thai and Finnish cave diving experts. Rescue teams successfully brought one of five survivors out of the flooded tunnel at 20.40 on 29 May 2026, according to the Thailand Rescue Diver Facebook page.  Get today's headlines by email   The worker was among seven Lao labourers trapped inside a gold mine cave in Long Chaeng, Xaysomboun province, Laos, since 19 May. Heavy rain and flash flooding had swept through the mine, cutting off access and leaving the workers stranded underground.  Thai and Finnish cave diving and rescue specialists travelled to the area on 20 May to assist with the operation. On 27 May 2026, rescuers finally reached the trapped workers, who were reported to be suffering from exhaustion after spending days inside the cave system.  Following contact with the survivors, rescue teams began planning a complex extraction from the flooded mine tunnels. The latest operation successfully removed the first survivor from the cave, while four others remain underground awaiting further assessment before evacuation attempts continue.   Picture courtesy of Komchadluek  &#x201C;Kaengkaj Bongkaowong&#x201D;, head of the Metta Tham rescue team from Thailand, confirmed the rescued worker was brought out safely. He added that teams would continue assessing conditions before attempting to evacuate the remaining four survivors.  Rescuers are also continuing efforts to locate two additional workers still missing inside the cave complex. Search operations for the missing pair are expected to resume on 30 May.  The rescue operation has drawn attention due to the difficult conditions inside the flooded mine and the involvement of experienced international cave rescue specialists. The operation follows days of challenging underwater access and hazardous conditions caused by persistent flooding.  Komchadluek reported officials have not yet released further details on the rescued worker&#x2019;s medical condition. Authorities are expected to provide additional updates as rescue teams continue evacuation and search efforts in the coming days.  AQOpjYNuKUgMVWbyNK4fTeVKfAkfAgfmbtSz6U2bdOVwKEtQ4tkguwsgRmZhIqQiDLpesK8VhimY-R6QTr7WJdDDkBvt4kfCRiA5jIpWYw.mp4  Related story  Thai-divers-find-five-in-collapsed-Laos-gold-mine  Join the discussion?   Already a member?    Adapted by ASEAN Now Komchadluek 30 May 2026 

 
View full article</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:46:32 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>The "refugees". In general.</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395683-the-refugees-in-general/?do=findComment&comment=20528934]]></link><description>I see that your use of  Soviet/Putinesque "the Ukraine" marks you out as a Russophile who believes that Ukraine is not a proper country, and has no right to independence.  Most of them are women and kids.  75% are women. Most left behind partners in Ukraine.  33% of Ukrainian refugees in Switzerland are in work, which is much higher than for other refugee groups in Switzerland. Ukrainian male refugees are more likely to be in work than women. Employers express a reluctance to employ Ukrainians because they don't know how long they will be around. 70% of refugees have a university degree.   Language is a significant bar to integration in Switzerland.  People bitching about refugees is an age old thing. Notably, during WW2, Switzerland practised anti-Semitic policies by collaborating with the Germans over refusing entry by refugees who has the J stamp in their passports. The  Bergier Commission concluded that about 24,000 Jewish refugees were refused entry or were forcibly deported to death camps by Switzerland.  The Swiss have a dirty secret in addition to the pollution they dump in the rivers for Belgium to clean up.</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:42:55 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Is it fair for older men to date much younger women?</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395211-is-it-fair-for-older-men-to-date-much-younger-women/?do=findComment&comment=20528933]]></link><description>This is common, mostly with men with limited budget.  A long term visa is more economical to stay in Thailand, these poorer men looking for anything to shack up with, they end up with the dregs, the old girl in the bar, been working there for years, who never gets bar fined.  As the years go by they move on to the aged pension, it's why some these pensioners are always grumpy, angry with themselves, they hate the world.</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:42:54 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Why are British Pensioners so despised</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395484-why-are-british-pensioners-so-despised/?do=findComment&comment=20528932]]></link><description>I paid NICs after 65? Good point, now is it the employer's or the employee's contributions that fund pensions. I continued working after 65 but freelance so continued with NICs but I honestly can't remember if the employee's stop or the employers. I think the employee's stop so you are correct in that respect but I continued paying employer's NICs. So in all was paying NICs either directly or indirectly for 54 years.</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:38:47 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Word Association - 2026</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1383425-word-association-2026/?do=findComment&comment=20528930]]></link><description>leisure</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:37:53 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>'Poison Seller' Admits Aiding Suicides Worldwide</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395692-poison-seller-admits-aiding-suicides-worldwide/?do=findComment&comment=20528929]]></link><description>A Canadian man has pleaded guilty to assisting the suicides of 14 people after admitting he sold and distributed lethal chemicals and detailed instructions to individuals around the world.  Get today's headlines by email   Kenneth Law, 60, entered guilty pleas to 14 counts of counselling or aiding suicide during a court appearance in Newmarket, Ontario, on Friday. In exchange, prosecutors agreed to withdraw 14 first-degree murder charges. Sentencing is scheduled for September. Law confirmed he understood the charges and was voluntarily entering the pleas before Justice Michelle Fuerst. Family members filled the courtroom as prosecutors outlined the cases involving victims aged between 16 and 36 in Ontario. Deaths Across Multiple CountriesLaw admitted responsibility for aiding the deaths of 14 people in Ontario and acknowledged supplying substances linked to the deaths of 79 people in the United Kingdom. The case has drawn international attention because of the scale of the operation. Investigators said Law shipped 1,209 packages to customers in 41 countries before authorities shut down his websites. The court heard that kits were sent to people in 40 countries and territories, with many recipients located in the UK and the United States. A former engineer and hotel cook, Law operated several websites selling lethal chemicals. Prosecutors said he disguised the business by also offering products such as hot sauce, creating the appearance of a food-preparation wholesaler. The silver packets carried warnings stating that users were solely responsible for how the products were used. Authorities said he also sold suicide-related items and provided detailed instructions on their use. Disturbing Details Presented in CourtProsecutors submitted a statement of facts exceeding 60 pages, detailing numerous deaths linked to Law's products. Several victims attempted to seek help after ingesting the substances. In one case, a young man alerted his parents after taking the poison and pleaded for assistance. In another, a 29-year-old man called emergency services himself, saying he had consumed a toxic substance and feared he was about to die. He later lost consciousness and died in hospital. The court also heard of a UK victim who contacted emergency services after taking a lethal substance, expressing regret and panic. Paramedics arrived within 30 minutes but were unable to save him. Packages from Law's companies were frequently discovered near victims. At the time of his arrest, authorities found that nearly C$297,000 had passed through Shopify and PayPal accounts linked to his businesses. Families Criticise Plea AgreementOutside court, relatives of victims expressed anger over the deal that removed the murder charges. Leonardo Bedoya, whose 18-year-old daughter Jeshennia died after obtaining one of the substances, described the agreement as a disgrace and said Law had profited from deaths around the world. Kim Prosser, whose 19-year-old son Ashtyn died in March 2023, said the case had left families enduring years of grief marked by missed birthdays and milestones. Families in the UK have also renewed calls for a public inquiry. A National Crime Agency investigation found that 286 people in Britain received packages from Law, with 112 deaths linked to recipients. Under an agreement announced on Friday, Law's involvement in those UK deaths will be taken into account during sentencing. Campaigners argue that online forums promoting suicide remain accessible despite repeated warnings from coroners and families. Legal Challenges and SentencingThe case was initially expected to become one of the largest murder prosecutions in Ontario's history. However, legal uncertainty emerged after an Ontario appeal court ruling suggested that merely supplying a substance used in a suicide might not be sufficient to secure a murder conviction. Although Canada's Supreme Court later questioned such a strict distinction, prosecutors ultimately reduced the charges to counselling or aiding suicide. Under Canadian law, the offence carries a maximum sentence of 14 years in prison. Legal experts believe the scale and international reach of Law's activities could result in a severe sentence. Victim impact statements and sentencing hearings are expected in September.  Join the discussion?   Already a member?     Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 30 May 2026 

 
View full article</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:35:48 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Thailand Visa Cut Sparks Tourism Debate</title><link>https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thailand-visa-cut-sparks-tourism-debate-r2075/</link><description>Thailand&#x2019;s decision to reduce visa-free stays from 60 days back to 30 days has triggered debate over whether the move will improve security or damage the country&#x2019;s tourism competitiveness. The government said the change was aimed at strengthening national security, tackling transnational crime and preventing foreigners from working illegally, operating businesses without permits and engaging in criminal activity while posing as tourists.  Get today's headlines by email   Authorities cited reports of foreign nationals and criminal syndicates using tourist visas to carry out illegal work, drug-related activity and unlawful business operations. Critics argued that better immigration screening and stronger law enforcement would be more effective than shortening visa-free stays for visitors from 93 eligible nationalities.  The policy change comes as Thailand faces growing competition in the global tourism market and seeks to boost visitor numbers amid economic uncertainty and sluggish GDP growth. Critics also pointed to previous government decisions, including temporary border trade closures with Cambodia during disputes last year, which affected economic activity on both sides of the border.  The government referred to a study showing that most tourists stay just over nine days on average. However, critics questioned why authorities reduced the limit instead of keeping the longer stay option to encourage more spending and longer visits by tourists.  Khaosod argued that there is currently no hard evidence proving longer stays lead to more crime. They also warned against stereotyping foreigners, noting that media coverage of crimes involving tourists and expatriates can create negative perceptions despite such cases representing only a small fraction of the more than 30 million foreign visitors Thailand receives annually.  The article also highlighted the role of Thai accomplices in some illegal operations, including the use of Thai nominees in unlawful business structures. It compared negative assumptions about foreign visitors with how Thais would object to broad stereotypes linking all Thai nationals to illegal labour migration in South Korea.  The Embassy of Israel in Bangkok was cited as an example of a diplomatic mission reminding its citizens to respect Thai laws following incidents involving Israeli nationals in Phuket earlier this month. The embassy advised citizens: &#x201C;Please, for your own good, be sure to act according to the procedures and the laws of the place.&#x201D;  According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Thailand welcomed more than 13.4 million foreign tourists between 1 January and 24 May this year, generating nearly 654 billion baht in tourism revenue. The largest number of arrivals came from China with 2.24 million visitors, followed by Malaysia, India, Russia and South Korea.  Officials from the police and Ministry of Tourism are expected to review crime and tourism figures over the next three to six months to assess whether the shorter visa-free period achieves its intended objectives. Critics said the government should reinstate the 60-day scheme if evidence fails to show a meaningful reduction in crime.   Picture courtesy of Khaosod  Join the discussion?   Already a member?    Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 30 May 2026</description><enclosure url="https://assets.aseannow.com/forum/uploads/monthly_2026_05/IMG_3274.png.a83ad1f0aaf2dce15d4bc3c493b343d9.png" length="3741829" type="image/png"/><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:34:50 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Thailand Visa Cut Sparks Tourism Debate</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395691-thailand-visa-cut-sparks-tourism-debate/?do=findComment&comment=20528928]]></link><description>Thailand&#x2019;s decision to reduce visa-free stays from 60 days back to 30 days has triggered debate over whether the move will improve security or damage the country&#x2019;s tourism competitiveness. The government said the change was aimed at strengthening national security, tackling transnational crime and preventing foreigners from working illegally, operating businesses without permits and engaging in criminal activity while posing as tourists.  Get today's headlines by email   Authorities cited reports of foreign nationals and criminal syndicates using tourist visas to carry out illegal work, drug-related activity and unlawful business operations. Critics argued that better immigration screening and stronger law enforcement would be more effective than shortening visa-free stays for visitors from 93 eligible nationalities.  The policy change comes as Thailand faces growing competition in the global tourism market and seeks to boost visitor numbers amid economic uncertainty and sluggish GDP growth. Critics also pointed to previous government decisions, including temporary border trade closures with Cambodia during disputes last year, which affected economic activity on both sides of the border.  The government referred to a study showing that most tourists stay just over nine days on average. However, critics questioned why authorities reduced the limit instead of keeping the longer stay option to encourage more spending and longer visits by tourists.  Khaosod argued that there is currently no hard evidence proving longer stays lead to more crime. They also warned against stereotyping foreigners, noting that media coverage of crimes involving tourists and expatriates can create negative perceptions despite such cases representing only a small fraction of the more than 30 million foreign visitors Thailand receives annually.  The article also highlighted the role of Thai accomplices in some illegal operations, including the use of Thai nominees in unlawful business structures. It compared negative assumptions about foreign visitors with how Thais would object to broad stereotypes linking all Thai nationals to illegal labour migration in South Korea.  The Embassy of Israel in Bangkok was cited as an example of a diplomatic mission reminding its citizens to respect Thai laws following incidents involving Israeli nationals in Phuket earlier this month. The embassy advised citizens: &#x201C;Please, for your own good, be sure to act according to the procedures and the laws of the place.&#x201D;  According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Thailand welcomed more than 13.4 million foreign tourists between 1 January and 24 May this year, generating nearly 654 billion baht in tourism revenue. The largest number of arrivals came from China with 2.24 million visitors, followed by Malaysia, India, Russia and South Korea.  Officials from the police and Ministry of Tourism are expected to review crime and tourism figures over the next three to six months to assess whether the shorter visa-free period achieves its intended objectives. Critics said the government should reinstate the 60-day scheme if evidence fails to show a meaningful reduction in crime.   Picture courtesy of Khaosod  Join the discussion?   Already a member?    Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 30 May 2026 

 
View full article</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:34:50 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Trump Weighs Final Approval on Iran Ceasefire Deal</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395689-trump-weighs-final-approval-on-iran-ceasefire-deal/?do=findComment&comment=20528927]]></link><description>Trump making it up again; it is so cringe watching this as a non-American, he is a real clown.  Americans must die of shame though, having elected a buffoon with so advanced dementia, that even people directly threatened by the "full might" of the American military are laughing about his constant idiocy.</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:28:04 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Vietnamese Workers Arrested in Bangkok Cannabis Raid</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395623-vietnamese-workers-arrested-in-bangkok-cannabis-raid/?do=findComment&comment=20528926]]></link><description>it is not only in Thailand. The same thing happens in America. They seem to be involved with drugs and prostitution where they go.  I have seen a few Vietnamese nail and hair salon in my area being busted for receiving drugs from overseas.  That was case of a married couple in America that committed suicide and killed their two daughters because their home was in process of  foreclosure. They seem to live by appearances, like to show off their material possessions.</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:27:37 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Pam Bondi Defends Handling of Epstein Files Release</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395690-pam-bondi-defends-handling-of-epstein-files-release/?do=findComment&comment=20528925]]></link><description>Former US Attorney General Pam Bondi has defended her handling of the release of records linked to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during testimony before a congressional committee in Washington.  Get today's headlines by email   Bondi, who was removed from her role by US President Donald Trump in April, appeared behind closed doors before the US House Oversight Committee on Friday as lawmakers investigated whether the Justice Department properly complied with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. In opening remarks, Bondi said the department had shown &#x201C;an unprecedented commitment to transparency&#x201D; by reviewing and producing nearly three million pages of material related to Epstein. She maintained that, to the best of her knowledge, the department released all records required under the law. Questions Over File ReleasesThe Epstein Files Transparency Act, signed into law by Trump, required the Justice Department to release unclassified records connected to Epstein. Bondi oversaw the process while serving as attorney general. However, the release of the documents drew criticism from both Republicans and Democrats. Critics accused the department of withholding material and failing to adequately protect victims&#x2019; identities in some files that became public. Committee chairman James Comer said lawmakers were investigating possible mismanagement of the release process and whether additional records could legally be disclosed. Speaking before the hearing, Comer said previous administrations had failed Epstein&#x2019;s victims and stressed that the committee wanted full transparency. &#x201C;We&#x2019;re going to try to determine whether or not there could be more documents legally turned over,&#x201D; Comer told reporters. Democrats on the committee later accused Bondi of avoiding key questions during the interview. Representative Robert Garcia said Bondi refused to answer questions related to Trump, while Representative Melanie Stansbury alleged Justice Department lawyers intervened to limit her testimony. Stansbury described the proceedings as a &#x201C;cover-up&#x201D; and claimed officials were preventing Bondi from discussing conversations with Trump. Bondi denied accusations that she attempted to shift responsibility for the handling of the files to former deputy attorney general Todd Blanche, who is now serving as acting attorney general. In a post online, she praised Blanche&#x2019;s handling of the matter and described his ethics as &#x201C;beyond reproach&#x201D;. Victims and Political FalloutEpstein survivor Maria Farmer also criticised Bondi&#x2019;s testimony, accusing her of ignoring survivors&#x2019; concerns and refusing to accept responsibility for mistakes made during the document release process. The Trump administration has faced sustained bipartisan pressure over the handling of Epstein-related records, including criticism over failures to redact victims&#x2019; names. Epstein died in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges. Bondi also faced renewed scrutiny over comments she made during a 2025 interview with Fox News in which she said a list of Epstein&#x2019;s high-profile clients was &#x201C;sitting on my desk right now&#x201D;. The Justice Department later clarified that she had been referring to the overall case file, not a separate client list. During her time as attorney general, Bondi was also criticised by Democrats who accused her of using the Justice Department to pursue Trump&#x2019;s political opponents. Health and Future RoleEarlier this week, Bondi revealed she had been diagnosed with thyroid cancer and was undergoing treatment, including surgery performed several weeks ago. She disclosed the diagnosis during an interview with CBS News. Bondi is expected to join the White House&#x2019;s Presidential Council of Advisors on Science and Technology, a newly formed advisory body focused on artificial intelligence. The congressional committee investigating the Epstein files has already interviewed several high-profile figures, including former President Bill Clinton, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and convicted Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell. Committee chairman Comer said philanthropist Bill Gates is expected to testify in the coming weeks.   Join the discussion?   Already a member?     Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 30 May 2026 

 
View full article</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:26:19 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Underground group calls for overthrow of Putin</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395374-underground-group-calls-for-overthrow-of-putin/?do=findComment&comment=20528924]]></link><description>When they're finished in Russia please send them to Australia to remove Albo.</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:21:31 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Israeli-Thai Firms Face Koh Phangan Probe</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395621-israeli-thai-firms-face-koh-phangan-probe/?do=findComment&comment=20528923]]></link><description>Non sense. I mean I have never met a Jew in America that was involved with real estate frauds, stock marker inside trading, human traffic, drug traffic? Madoff? Sam bankman-Fried? Larry Silverstein?  Complete fabrication. I think the Thai government is just jealous of how "the Gods Chosen People" are so successful. I even met a Polish Jew in America that once made a mistake writing me a check,  adding $ 5.00 extra dollars. He wanted to me to kiss his hand and be thankful because  he thought those precious $ 5.00 would change my life.</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:21:09 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Is it fair for older men to date much younger women?</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395211-is-it-fair-for-older-men-to-date-much-younger-women/?do=findComment&comment=20528922]]></link><description>Actually, I do know 2 older women who have much younger husbands.  Both couples get on very well and have been together years. Then I know another woman of around 36 who was with a young man, he was hopelessly in love with her. She loved him too but left him because she felt it was unfair on him. Broke his heart. They&#x2019;re still in touch online . I personally think it could have worked.  None of them had mother complexes from what I saw. All very stable. I think all types of relationships can work, if love is there.</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:20:10 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Farage fury as Reform and Restore tear into each other</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395688-farage-fury-as-reform-and-restore-tear-into-each-other/?do=findComment&comment=20528921]]></link><description>I'd love to know where our old mate Bazzer sits on this. Which one loves hanging flags more? Which one can shout the loudest at boats? Which one wants the Lord's Prayer more than the other?  Good righteous super religious people who only care about sovrinty innit.</description><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 20:19:01 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Trump Weighs Final Approval on Iran Ceasefire Deal</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395689-trump-weighs-final-approval-on-iran-ceasefire-deal/?do=findComment&comment=20528920]]></link><description>US President Donald Trump said he had convened a meeting in the White House Situation Room to make a &#x201C;final determination&#x201D; on a proposed agreement aimed at extending a ceasefire with Iran and restarting negotiations over Tehran&#x2019;s nuclear programme.  Get today's headlines by email   In a post on Truth Social on Friday, Trump said Iran would have to agree never to obtain a nuclear weapon and ensure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to &#x201C;unrestricted shipping traffic&#x201D; in both directions. He also demanded that any mines placed in the strategic waterway be destroyed. The meeting came after US officials said Washington and Tehran had agreed to a framework for a memorandum of understanding, pending approval from Trump and Iran&#x2019;s leadership. Under the reported proposal, the current ceasefire would be extended for 60 days while negotiations continue over the future of Iran&#x2019;s nuclear activities. Strait of Hormuz at centre of talksTrump also said he was prepared to lift the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, adding that ships trapped in the area could begin &#x201C;heading home&#x201D;. He further insisted that Iran allow the US to remove and destroy its stockpile of enriched uranium, a longstanding demand from Washington. &#x201C;No money will be exchanged, until further notice,&#x201D; Trump wrote. &#x201C;Other items, of far less importance, have been agreed to.&#x201D; A White House official later confirmed to the BBC that the Situation Room meeting had ended, but declined to provide further details. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global shipping route for oil exports, and tensions in the area have contributed to sharp increases in energy prices since fighting escalated earlier this year. Iran rejects nuclear negotiations claimIranian officials appeared to push back against parts of Trump&#x2019;s account. Iran&#x2019;s Fars news agency, citing informed sources, described Trump&#x2019;s comments as a &#x201C;mixture of truth and lies&#x201D; and said the reported memorandum contained no provision for destroying nuclear materials. Meanwhile, foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei told Iranian state television that Tehran remained focused on ending the conflict and was not negotiating over its nuclear programme. Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear activities are for peaceful purposes and denies seeking nuclear weapons. The US has long demanded that Iran halt the production of highly enriched uranium and dispose of existing stockpiles that could potentially be used in weapons development. Ceasefire remains fragileDespite repeated statements from Trump since the ceasefire began on 8 April suggesting progress towards a deal, no final agreement has yet been reached. US Vice-President JD Vance said on Thursday that negotiators were still discussing &#x201C;a couple of language points&#x201D;, including issues surrounding uranium enrichment. &#x201C;We&#x2019;re not there yet, but we&#x2019;re very close,&#x201D; Vance said. Iran&#x2019;s chief negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said Tehran did not trust promises alone. &#x201C;No action will be taken before the other side acts,&#x201D; he wrote on social media. &#x201C;The winner of any agreement is the one who is better prepared for war the day after.&#x201D; The current conflict began after US and Israeli strikes on Iran on 28 February. Iran responded with attacks on Israel and Gulf states allied with Washington, and effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz. Both sides have since accused each other of violating the ceasefire. On Thursday, Iran&#x2019;s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it had targeted a US air base in Kuwait that it claimed was linked to earlier strikes on Bandar Abbas, a key Iranian port city near the strait. US Central Command described the attack as an &#x201C;egregious ceasefire violation&#x201D;.   Join the discussion?   Already a member?     Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 30 May 2026 

 
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