https://aseannow.com/rss/44-thailand-news.xml/National and regional news from all around ThailandenI'm just trying to understand what you just said, are you saying that you're totally in opposition to any level of dissent or disagreement with government policy?Fri, 22 May 2026 21:27:32 +0000The founder of a community group in Greater Manchester has called on Reform UK leader Nigel Farage to apologise after an unannounced visit by him and his campaign team to a cafe supporting young adults with additional needs. Get today's headlines by email The dispute arose during campaigning in Makerfield, where Farage and members of the Reform UK team stopped at a cafe operated by Hamlet Wigan CIC for tea and to use the toilets. At the time, the venue was hosting a celebration for trainees who had completed their gold Duke of Edinburgh awards. Around a dozen young people attended the event, alongside Andy Burnham, who has long supported the organisation. Concerns Over VisitGemma Crompton, director of the Hamlet, later wrote to Farage describing the visit as “intimidating and overwhelming” for trainees, staff and families. She said the arrival of a large group, including security staff and media crews, created distress at what had been intended as a private celebration event. Crompton said the organisation welcomed visitors from all political backgrounds but objected to the way the visit was handled. In her letter, she requested a formal apology and assurances that similar incidents involving organisations supporting vulnerable people would not happen again. She also accused members of the visiting group of filming and taking photographs without permission, despite requests for media activity to stop once staff became aware of it. Political RowReform UK MP Lee Anderson said the stop had been spontaneous and non-political, describing it as a quick visit for “a cuppa” and to use the toilet facilities. Anderson questioned why the complaint had been made, saying Crompton had spoken with the group during the visit, posed for photographs and thanked them before they left. The incident also led to criticism of Burnham after reports suggested he reacted sharply when approached by a journalist accompanying Farage’s team. According to reports, Burnham said campaigners should not enter a venue like the Hamlet unannounced. Burnham has previously supported the organisation, including attending the opening of its new buildings in 2023. Crompton stressed, however, that the Duke of Edinburgh celebration “was not intended to be a political event or a platform for campaigning”. Video ResponseFollowing Anderson’s comments, Crompton posted a video online while visiting Buckingham Palace with trainees attending the Duke of Edinburgh celebrations. In the video, she contrasted Burnham’s attendance with the Reform visit, saying the mayor had arrived alone and without media crews. She alleged that a group of at least 15 people connected to Reform UK entered the cafe and immediately began filming and taking photographs. Crompton said no consent had been given for the cafe to be used in a political context. Burnham later backed the organisation’s criticism, saying those involved should “hold their hands up and apologise”. Reform UK denied the visit had been political. In a statement responding to Crompton’s letter, the party said the stop had been made “in good faith and without political motivation”. The party also disputed claims that wider filming or photography had taken place, although it acknowledged that staff members had taken selfies with Farage and Reform candidate Robert Kenyon. Reform said some young adults at the cafe had spoken with Farage and shaken his hand. The statement added that the tone of Crompton’s letter gave the impression it had been politically influenced. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 21:24:28 +0000Five shots, or whatever the contradictory official reports are claiming this time! This should be handled by local border commanders over a coffee, not escalated into a diplomatic crisis.Fri, 22 May 2026 21:23:22 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/russia-seeks-thai-visa-flexibility-r1940/Russia has urged Thailand to apply flexibility to its revised visa rules, particularly for foreigners needing extended medical treatment. Russian Ambassador Evgeny Tomikhin said he hoped Thai authorities would consider special arrangements in such cases after the cabinet approved reducing visa-free stays from 60 days to 30 days for visitors from 93 countries, including Russia. Get today's headlines by email The policy change was approved by the Thai cabinet on Tuesday, according to the government’s public relations department. The revision has prompted concerns among some foreign visitors about how the shorter visa-free period could affect long-term stays in Thailand. Speaking to Thai media at the Russian embassy on Wednesday ahead of Russia’s National Day on 12 June, Mr Tomikhin said Russian nationals had not been significantly affected by the new rules. He explained this was mainly because Thailand and Russia already have a bilateral agreement allowing Russian citizens to stay in Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days. The ambassador said there had been no complaints from the Russian community in Thailand so far. However, he acknowledged that difficulties could arise in special circumstances, particularly for visitors undergoing prolonged medical treatment. “I hope there might be some flexible instruments for certain circumstances like this because life is much more difficult than only rules,” he said. He added that he hoped to discuss the matter further with Thailand’s Foreign Affairs Ministry. Mr Tomikhin also stressed that foreigners should comply with Thai regulations, describing the revised visa policy as a standard rule applied equally to all nationalities. His comments came as Thailand reviews immigration measures aimed at managing tourism and long-stay visitors more closely. Separately, the ambassador said Russia was prepared to increase fertiliser exports to Thailand as countries affected by the ongoing Middle East conflict seek alternative suppliers. He noted that Russia remains one of the world’s leading fertiliser exporters. According to Mr Tomikhin, Thailand imported around 600,000 tonnes of Russian fertiliser last year, valued at US$300 million, or about 9.78 billion baht. He said Russia was open to negotiating further supply agreements through designated companies, with pricing expected to be the main issue in future talks. The Bangkokpost reported that the ambassador also expressed hope for further discussions with Thailand’s Energy Ministry on possible areas of cooperation. Further talks between Russian and Thai officials are expected in the coming months as both countries continue discussions on visa arrangements and trade cooperation. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Bangkokpost 23 May 2026Fri, 22 May 2026 21:21:03 +0000Russia has urged Thailand to apply flexibility to its revised visa rules, particularly for foreigners needing extended medical treatment. Russian Ambassador Evgeny Tomikhin said he hoped Thai authorities would consider special arrangements in such cases after the cabinet approved reducing visa-free stays from 60 days to 30 days for visitors from 93 countries, including Russia. Get today's headlines by email The policy change was approved by the Thai cabinet on Tuesday, according to the government’s public relations department. The revision has prompted concerns among some foreign visitors about how the shorter visa-free period could affect long-term stays in Thailand. Speaking to Thai media at the Russian embassy on Wednesday ahead of Russia’s National Day on 12 June, Mr Tomikhin said Russian nationals had not been significantly affected by the new rules. He explained this was mainly because Thailand and Russia already have a bilateral agreement allowing Russian citizens to stay in Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days. The ambassador said there had been no complaints from the Russian community in Thailand so far. However, he acknowledged that difficulties could arise in special circumstances, particularly for visitors undergoing prolonged medical treatment. “I hope there might be some flexible instruments for certain circumstances like this because life is much more difficult than only rules,” he said. He added that he hoped to discuss the matter further with Thailand’s Foreign Affairs Ministry. Mr Tomikhin also stressed that foreigners should comply with Thai regulations, describing the revised visa policy as a standard rule applied equally to all nationalities. His comments came as Thailand reviews immigration measures aimed at managing tourism and long-stay visitors more closely. Separately, the ambassador said Russia was prepared to increase fertiliser exports to Thailand as countries affected by the ongoing Middle East conflict seek alternative suppliers. He noted that Russia remains one of the world’s leading fertiliser exporters. According to Mr Tomikhin, Thailand imported around 600,000 tonnes of Russian fertiliser last year, valued at US$300 million, or about 9.78 billion baht. He said Russia was open to negotiating further supply agreements through designated companies, with pricing expected to be the main issue in future talks. The Bangkokpost reported that the ambassador also expressed hope for further discussions with Thailand’s Energy Ministry on possible areas of cooperation. Further talks between Russian and Thai officials are expected in the coming months as both countries continue discussions on visa arrangements and trade cooperation. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Bangkokpost 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 21:21:03 +0000The numbers are tiny in the grand scheme of things, and even support for this sort of action is fairly lukewarm among the electorate, similar to the Anti-weaponsization Fund. I suspect he genuinely believes both measures are genuinely popular, when in reality, these are progammes, at taxpayers expense, that benefits, in some cases, ill-deservadly. Some White South Africans are going home;Fri, 22 May 2026 21:20:49 +0000The Trump administration has announced that many legal immigrants seeking permanent residency in the United States will now have to leave the country and apply for green cards from their home nations, marking a major shift in immigration policy. Get today's headlines by email The new guidance, issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services on Friday, limits the long-standing “adjustment of status” process that has allowed immigrants already living legally in the US to apply for permanent residency without leaving the country. Agency officials described the move as a return to the original purpose of immigration law, while critics said it would disrupt the lives of millions of legal immigrants. New rules for green card applicantsUnder the policy, people living temporarily in the US on student, work or other visas will generally be required to return to their home countries to seek permanent residency. Exceptions will apply only in what the administration described as “extraordinary circumstances.” USCIS spokesperson Zach Kahler said the administration was seeking to ensure immigrants “navigate our nation’s immigration system properly.” “From now on, an alien who is in the U.S. temporarily and wants a Green Card must return to their home country to apply,” Kahler said in a statement. He added that the change would reduce the number of people who remain in the US illegally after being denied residency applications. The policy coincides with a halt in immigrant visa processing by the U.S. Department of State in 75 countries, further complicating immigration pathways for applicants abroad. Adjustment of status curtailedFor decades, adjustment of status has been one of the main legal pathways to permanent residency in the US. The process allowed eligible immigrants already in the country to change from temporary visas to green cards without leaving. Students, temporary workers and spouses of US citizens have commonly used the system to secure permanent residency. David Bier, director of immigration studies at the Cato Institute, said the process had been used by more than half of legal immigrants over the past generation. Bier criticised the administration’s decision, arguing that Congress intended eligible immigrants to remain in the US while their applications were processed. “These are all people who qualify to stay here permanently and Congress clearly wanted them to have a way to stay,” Bier wrote on social media. He also described the administration as hostile to legal immigration, warning the changes could cost immigrants their jobs and separate families. Growing immigration backlogThe policy arrives as USCIS faces a large backlog of pending immigration cases. Bier said there are already around one million pending adjustment-of-status applications. The backlog has expanded since the Trump administration ordered a pause on immigration applications around Thanksgiving last year after the fatal shooting of a National Guard member in Washington, DC. That earlier policy remains the subject of legal challenges. Legal experts also expect the latest directive to face court scrutiny. Opponents may argue that such a significant change to immigration procedures should have gone through a formal public rulemaking process before being implemented. While the administration maintains the policy restores the original intent of immigration law, immigration advocates warn it could create uncertainty for long-term residents who have legally built their lives in the United States. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 21:16:31 +0000ManFri, 22 May 2026 21:13:50 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-immigration-detains-chinese-fraud-suspect-r1939/Thai Immigration Police, working in coordination with public security authorities in China’s Gansu province, have detained Chinese national Mr. Zhongwei, who is wanted in connection with a major cross-border investment fraud case. The arrest followed intelligence-led tracking that located the suspect in Thailand. Get today's headlines by email Authorities confirmed the detention was carried out under cooperation between the Immigration Bureau and Chinese law enforcement agencies. Investigators said Mr. ZHongwei was part of a group that allegedly operated the unauthorised “Zhong-Jing commodity trading platform” between November 2020 and April 2024. The platform reportedly claimed to link its price charts with real futures market data to appear legitimate, while using false advertising and so-called “teacher lecturers” to attract investors. The scheme is alleged to have involved more than 22,000 victims, causing losses exceeding 500 million yuan. Authorities also said the suspect and associates gained illicit profits of over 50 million yuan. According to the investigation by public security authorities in Lanzhou, Gansu, Mr. Zhongwei fled from Shanghai Pudong International Airport on 31 May 2024 before a formal arrest warrant was issued by the Lanzhou People’s Procuratorate on 24 July 2024. He and 21 associates were later charged with “illegal business operation” for running the scheme without regulatory approval or financial licences. Officials said the operation highlights strengthened cooperation between Thai and Chinese authorities in tackling transnational financial crime and locating fugitives who attempt to use Thailand as a hideout. Thaitabloid reported that Mr. Zhongwei is now in custody in Thailand, with authorities preparing legal procedures for his repatriation to China to face prosecution under the ongoing investigation. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 23 May 2026Fri, 22 May 2026 21:11:34 +0000Thai Immigration Police, working in coordination with public security authorities in China’s Gansu province, have detained Chinese national Mr. Zhongwei, who is wanted in connection with a major cross-border investment fraud case. The arrest followed intelligence-led tracking that located the suspect in Thailand. Get today's headlines by email Authorities confirmed the detention was carried out under cooperation between the Immigration Bureau and Chinese law enforcement agencies. Investigators said Mr. ZHongwei was part of a group that allegedly operated the unauthorised “Zhong-Jing commodity trading platform” between November 2020 and April 2024. The platform reportedly claimed to link its price charts with real futures market data to appear legitimate, while using false advertising and so-called “teacher lecturers” to attract investors. The scheme is alleged to have involved more than 22,000 victims, causing losses exceeding 500 million yuan. Authorities also said the suspect and associates gained illicit profits of over 50 million yuan. According to the investigation by public security authorities in Lanzhou, Gansu, Mr. Zhongwei fled from Shanghai Pudong International Airport on 31 May 2024 before a formal arrest warrant was issued by the Lanzhou People’s Procuratorate on 24 July 2024. He and 21 associates were later charged with “illegal business operation” for running the scheme without regulatory approval or financial licences. Officials said the operation highlights strengthened cooperation between Thai and Chinese authorities in tackling transnational financial crime and locating fugitives who attempt to use Thailand as a hideout. Thaitabloid reported that Mr. Zhongwei is now in custody in Thailand, with authorities preparing legal procedures for his repatriation to China to face prosecution under the ongoing investigation. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 21:11:34 +0000Sir Paul McCartney joined Stephen Colbert for an emotional farewell as “The Late Show” aired its final episode after more than three decades on CBS. Get today's headlines by email The programme ended Thursday night with McCartney performing Hello Goodbye alongside Colbert, who sang backing vocals during the performance. Musicians Elvis Costello and Jon Batiste, along with members of the show’s staff, also took part in the closing number. A Return to a Historic StageThe finale also marked a return to a venue closely linked to McCartney’s career. The theatre that hosted “The Late Show” was also home to The Ed Sullivan Show, where The Beatles made one of their first US television appearances in 1964. During the interview segment, Colbert asked McCartney whether the theatre still brought back memories of Beatlemania. “When you close your eyes, do you hear the girls screaming?” Colbert asked, prompting loud cheers from audience members. “Yeah,” McCartney replied.Asked how often that still happens, the former Beatle answered: “Often.” McCartney also recalled the band wearing heavy television makeup during their Sullivan appearance, describing it as “bright orange”. “That’s very popular in certain circles these days,” Colbert joked, drawing laughter from the audience. Reflections on America and the Beatles FilmMcCartney spoke about how the Beatles once viewed the United States as “the land of the free” and “the greatest democracy”. “That was what it was,” he said. “It still is, hopefully.” The musician also discussed the forthcoming Beatles biopic project and praised Paul Mescal, who is set to portray him on screen. When Colbert asked who was “cuter” — a young McCartney or Mescal — the singer replied: “Me,” before adding that the actor was “very cute”. The End of ‘The Late Show’CBS announced in July 2025 that it would end “The Late Show” franchise, describing the move as a financial decision made during a difficult period for late-night television. The show first launched in 1993 with David Letterman as host before Colbert took over in 2015. Earlier in the finale, Colbert, Costello and Batiste performed Costello’s lesser-known song Jump Up. As “Hello Goodbye” came to an end, Colbert walked to the studio light switch and invited McCartney to join him. Together, they switched off the lights, plunging the theatre into darkness. The closing sequence then shifted into a surreal scene in which the building appeared inside a snow globe being sniffed by a dog. Colbert’s voice could be heard saying, “C’mon Benny, let’s go,” before the programme ended. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 21:08:16 +0000As noted above, the Royal Thai Police Act and Section 146 of the Thai Criminal Code address wearing official uniforms or insignia without authorization. But, people can buy "POLICE" items at local markets or online Lazada shops. And you often see people wearing clothing with "POLICE" written on them. Apparently, it comes down to whether there is the Intent to Deceive!Fri, 22 May 2026 21:04:35 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-army-protests-cambodian-fire-near-surin-r1938/The Royal Thai Army says five gunshots fired from the Cambodian side near the Surin border violated a joint ceasefire understanding and were intended to harass Thai troops. Get today's headlines by email According to Army spokesman Maj Gen Winthai Suvaree, the incident took place on May 21, 2026, while personnel from Ranger Company 2603 under the Suranaree Task Force were improving defensive positions and strengthening security near Border Marker 18 in Kap Choeng district, Surin province. At around 2.20pm, Thai personnel heard five rounds of small-arms fire coming from the south, approximately 600 metres away, in an area under Cambodian control. After stopping to assess the situation and observe the area, troops reported no irregularities and resumed their mission. The Army confirmed that no Thai personnel were injured during the incident. Thai forces also did not return fire, with Maj Gen Winthai stating that troops avoided responding in order to prevent revealing their positions and deployment. The Suranaree Task Force said units stationed along the border remain on alert and are continuing to follow established rules of engagement based on the situation on the ground. The Army added that, although the firing appeared to be long-range harassment, it was considered a clear violation of the existing joint statement between the two sides. The border area in Surin province has seen periodic tensions in the past, with both Thai and Cambodian forces maintaining a military presence in sensitive areas near the frontier. The latest exchange comes as authorities on both sides continue coordination efforts aimed at preventing escalation along the border. In response to the gunfire, the Suranaree Task Force said it would issue a formal warning and lodge a protest with the Cambodian side through local coordination channels. Thai military officials stressed that forces in the area remain prepared to respond if necessary while continuing to avoid actions that could worsen tensions. Security analysts have previously noted that even isolated incidents along disputed or sensitive border areas can increase strain between neighbouring forces if not quickly addressed through military coordination mechanisms. The Nation reported that Thai authorities have not announced any additional security measures following the incident, but troops operating in the area have been instructed to maintain heightened vigilance while carrying out ongoing defensive operations near the border. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 23 May 2026Fri, 22 May 2026 21:02:29 +0000The Royal Thai Army says five gunshots fired from the Cambodian side near the Surin border violated a joint ceasefire understanding and were intended to harass Thai troops. Get today's headlines by email According to Army spokesman Maj Gen Winthai Suvaree, the incident took place on May 21, 2026, while personnel from Ranger Company 2603 under the Suranaree Task Force were improving defensive positions and strengthening security near Border Marker 18 in Kap Choeng district, Surin province. At around 2.20pm, Thai personnel heard five rounds of small-arms fire coming from the south, approximately 600 metres away, in an area under Cambodian control. After stopping to assess the situation and observe the area, troops reported no irregularities and resumed their mission. The Army confirmed that no Thai personnel were injured during the incident. Thai forces also did not return fire, with Maj Gen Winthai stating that troops avoided responding in order to prevent revealing their positions and deployment. The Suranaree Task Force said units stationed along the border remain on alert and are continuing to follow established rules of engagement based on the situation on the ground. The Army added that, although the firing appeared to be long-range harassment, it was considered a clear violation of the existing joint statement between the two sides. The border area in Surin province has seen periodic tensions in the past, with both Thai and Cambodian forces maintaining a military presence in sensitive areas near the frontier. The latest exchange comes as authorities on both sides continue coordination efforts aimed at preventing escalation along the border. In response to the gunfire, the Suranaree Task Force said it would issue a formal warning and lodge a protest with the Cambodian side through local coordination channels. Thai military officials stressed that forces in the area remain prepared to respond if necessary while continuing to avoid actions that could worsen tensions. Security analysts have previously noted that even isolated incidents along disputed or sensitive border areas can increase strain between neighbouring forces if not quickly addressed through military coordination mechanisms. The Nation reported that Thai authorities have not announced any additional security measures following the incident, but troops operating in the area have been instructed to maintain heightened vigilance while carrying out ongoing defensive operations near the border. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 21:02:29 +0000A second federal lawsuit has been filed against the Trump administration’s planned $1.8 billion “Anti-Weaponization Fund”, escalating legal challenges over a compensation programme intended for people who say they were targeted by the Biden administration. Get today's headlines by email The complaint, filed on Friday in the Eastern District of Virginia, argues that the fund was created without congressional approval and violates constitutional limits on federal spending. The suit also claims the initiative breaches the 14th Amendment’s ban on using public money “in aid of insurrection or rebellion against the United States”. The legal action was brought by a coalition of nonprofit groups and individuals, including a former prosecutor involved in January 6 cases, the advocacy group Common Cause, the National Abortion Federation, and the city of New Haven, Connecticut. In court filings, the plaintiffs argued the fund lacked any legal foundation or oversight. “Created following a collusive agreement between the President and his own administration, this Fund has no congressional authorization, no basis in law, and no accountability,” the lawsuit stated. Second Legal ChallengeThe latest case follows a separate lawsuit filed earlier in Washington, D.C., by former Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn and Metropolitan Police officer Daniel Hodges. Both officers defended the Capitol during the January 6, 2021 attack and are seeking to block the fund before it is established. The Department of Justice announced the creation of the “Anti-Weaponization Fund” as part of a broader settlement arrangement involving President Donald Trump. In exchange, Trump agreed to drop a $10 billion lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service and two additional civil claims. The proposed fund has triggered criticism from both Democrats and some Republicans, particularly over the possibility that taxpayer money could ultimately benefit people convicted or accused in connection with the Capitol riot. Under the agreement, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche is expected to establish the fund within 30 days. Blanche would also appoint a five-member commission responsible for reviewing and approving claims. Trump Defends the PlanAlthough Trump previously said he was not directly involved in creating the programme, he publicly defended it on social media on Friday. He said he had sacrificed the possibility of securing a large personal settlement in order to support people he described as victims of a “weaponized” Biden administration. Trump cited both the disclosure of his tax returns and the FBI search of his Mar-a-Lago property among the grievances connected to the settlement discussions. The Virginia lawsuit also challenges the administration’s planned use of the federal Judgment Fund, a permanent appropriation typically used to pay legal settlements and court judgments against the government. Plaintiffs argue the administration is improperly using that fund to bypass Congress’s constitutional authority over federal spending. Questions Over Legal StandingDespite growing political controversy, some legal experts have questioned whether the lawsuits will succeed. A key issue is whether the plaintiffs can demonstrate legal standing — meaning they can show they would be directly harmed by the creation of the fund. ABC News legal contributor James Sample said the earlier case brought by the Capitol officers may struggle to meet that requirement because many of the harms they cite relate to past events rather than future consequences tied directly to the compensation programme. Sample acknowledged that the officers had faced threats and harassment since speaking publicly about January 6, but argued those injuries may not be legally connected to the proposed use of the Judgment Fund. The lawsuits were filed before the compensation fund itself has formally begun operating. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 20:59:20 +0000Nexus there is little point trying to discuss threads with Joebloggs he will just feed you. What ever you say he will pull you down even if you produce videos in Evidence he will have an answer for you so your wasting your time and effort, he will never accept anything on Tommy Robinson. He is proud of the way British justice is served but after 2 court trials where the culprits have been allowed to walk free after comitting GBH on a serving police officer says it all about justice in the UK. Joebloggs will come back with his full page answer but the second case is different from the 1st where one of the Thugs was jailed.Fri, 22 May 2026 20:56:03 +0000I'm sure her 'cousin' agrees.Fri, 22 May 2026 20:49:05 +0000Russian President Vladimir Putin has vowed retaliation after accusing Ukraine of carrying out a deadly drone strike on a student dormitory in the Russian-occupied town of Starobilsk in eastern Ukraine. Get today's headlines by email Speaking at a reception at the Kremlin on Friday, Putin said six people were killed and 39 injured in the overnight attack in the occupied Luhansk region. He added that another 15 people were missing following the strike. Moscow said the building targeted was a student dormitory and denied claims that military facilities were located nearby. “There are no military facilities, intelligence service facilities, or related services in the vicinity,” Putin said. He also rejected suggestions that the damage may have been caused by Russian air defence systems or electronic warfare equipment. The Russian leader said the attack had been carried out in three waves using 16 drones and instructed the military to prepare proposals for a response. Ukraine claims military targetUkraine’s military later confirmed carrying out a strike in Starobilsk, saying it had targeted the headquarters of Russia’s elite Rubicon drone unit. Kyiv did not specify whether the military site was located in the same building identified by Russian authorities as a dormitory. In a statement, Ukraine accused Rubicon personnel of repeatedly attacking civilians and civilian infrastructure inside Ukraine. The military said Ukrainian forces were striking “military infrastructure and facilities used for military purposes” while adhering to international humanitarian law and the laws of war. Russian state television broadcast footage of what it said was one of the injured students, identifying her as 19-year-old Diana Shovkun. Reports said she suffered head injuries after being struck by falling concrete during the collapse of part of the building. No images or videos of the people Moscow said were killed were publicly released. Escalating strikesThe reported attack came amid continuing cross-border drone and missile strikes by both sides in the war, now in its fourth year since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. On Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukrainian forces had struck the headquarters of Russia’s FSB security service in occupied parts of the southern Kherson region. Zelensky claimed around 100 Russian personnel had been killed or wounded in the operation. Russia’s defence ministry has not commented on the reported Kherson strike, although a pro-Kremlin Telegram channel reported casualties after what it described as a “massive drone strike”. Civilian casualties remain a major point of dispute between Moscow and Kyiv. Ukraine has repeatedly accused Russia of deliberately targeting civilians and residential areas during the war, allegations the Kremlin denies. Last week, Ukrainian officials said a Russian missile strike on a high-rise residential building in Kyiv killed 24 people, including three girls. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 20:48:49 +0000The US is also experiencing a surge a STDs. Various theories as to why; a post-COVD-19 cohort has been suggested. https://www.ashasexualhealth.org/the-state-of-stis-cdc-reports-an-alarming-rise-in-syphilis/ Australia reports similar trends, though they detect increases pre-Covid. https://www1.racgp.org.au/newsgp/clinical/surge-in-most-stis-over-the-past-10-years And Japan https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12127005/ So you start thinking the reasons mught go beyond changes in behaviour. Thats part of it, but also increased diagnostic testing rates contributes. And the diagnostic protocol for syphillis has improved immeasurably.Fri, 22 May 2026 20:45:05 +0000British police investigating Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor have appealed for further witnesses to come forward as detectives examine allegations that could include sexual misconduct linked to his time as a UK trade envoy. Get today's headlines by email In an update on Friday, Thames Valley Police said investigators believed more people may hold relevant information as part of the force’s ongoing inquiry into alleged misconduct in public office by the former prince. The force confirmed it had contacted lawyers representing a woman who previously claimed she was taken to an address in Windsor for sexual purposes in 2010. The allegation, first reported by the BBC earlier this year, relates to an alleged encounter at Royal Lodge, Mountbatten-Windsor’s former residence. Contact With Alleged VictimThe woman’s lawyer, Brad Edwards of US law firm Edwards Henderson, told the BBC that his client had been sent to Britain by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein while she was in her 20s. He said the woman later spent a night with Mountbatten-Windsor and was given a tour of Buckingham Palace. Police said they had not yet spoken directly to the alleged victim but stressed that any future complaint would be handled carefully and confidentially. “We have engaged with the woman’s legal representative to confirm that, should she wish to report this to police, it will be taken seriously and handled with care, sensitivity and respect for her privacy and her right for anonymity,” the force said. Investigators added that any contact with police would proceed according to the woman’s wishes. Broad Misconduct InquiryThe statement marked the first public update since Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested in February at his home in Sandringham, Norfolk, over allegations linked to misconduct in public office. He was released under investigation later the same day. Mountbatten-Windsor has denied all wrongdoing connected to Epstein and has rejected accusations that he benefited personally from his role as Britain’s trade envoy. Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said investigators continued to examine “a number of aspects of alleged misconduct” following the release of US government files related to Epstein. “Our misconduct in public office investigation is continuing,” Wright said. “Misconduct in public office is a crime that can take different forms, making this a complex investigation.” Focus Beyond Confidential InformationThe update came after the British government published documents relating to Mountbatten-Windsor’s appointment as a trade envoy in 2001. The papers suggested there was no evidence he had undergone formal vetting before taking the role and showed that the late Queen Elizabeth II had supported his appointment. Previously released documents from the US Department of Justice appeared to indicate Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential material with Epstein while serving as a trade envoy. Officials in such positions are barred from disclosing sensitive commercial or political information. However, Britain’s PA Media news agency reported that detectives were concerned the public may wrongly believe the investigation only concerns alleged information-sharing. Under British law, misconduct in public office can cover a wide range of alleged behaviour, including corruption, conflicts of interest, financial misconduct, wilful neglect of duty and sexual misconduct. Police said they continued to support other UK forces contacting victims and survivors connected to Epstein investigations. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 20:40:37 +0000There you go. Never fails, from the same drooling trolling envious crowdFri, 22 May 2026 20:33:02 +0000StrawFri, 22 May 2026 20:31:37 +0000Possibly, but a lot of fighting is in contested no-man lands. The Ukrainian priority is of course their own people. https://youtu.be/lgFXDuuP910?si=uDfQleUUYrntqhsx https://youtu.be/k7SDXVHIA94?si=bQjK9VoB8iCGdWvh https://youtu.be/RaZn_k2zAZk?si=1_9rLAbSM6adD5SF If all that is left of you after a couple of years in the open is some rib bones and tibia/fibia, then no doubt many will remain missing. The founder of the Black Tulip group gives a grim account of battlefield body recovery: https://war.huri.harvard.edu/2023/02/15/an-interview-with-oleksii-yukov/ In the account, as he has given in other interviews, he recounts that before the war, he was involved in WW2 battlefield recovery, and disclosed that Soviet mass graves were often full of more bodies than recorded, as the Soviets tried to cover up losses.Fri, 22 May 2026 20:26:19 +0000Easy enough to get a 60 day VISA online for a few shekels so not a huge problem.Fri, 22 May 2026 20:24:55 +0000US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has sought to reassure Nato allies over shifting American troop deployments in Europe, following a series of announcements by President Donald Trump that have unsettled members of the alliance. Get today's headlines by email Rubio spoke after a meeting of Nato foreign ministers in Helsingborg, where concerns were raised over recent US decisions involving troop movements in Poland and Germany. Troop changes spark uncertaintyTrump announced on Thursday that the US would deploy an additional 5,000 troops to Poland. The move came only a week after the Pentagon cancelled a planned deployment of 4,000 troops to the country and days after Washington confirmed plans to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany. The sequence of announcements has caused confusion among Nato members, many of whom are already uneasy about Washington’s long-term commitment to European security. Rubio addresses Nato concernsSpeaking to reporters on Friday, Rubio said the US was continually reviewing its military posture abroad in light of wider global obligations, including ongoing tensions in the Middle East linked to the conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran. “Allies understand that the United States troop presence in Europe is going to be adjusted,” Rubio said, adding that consultations with Nato partners had already taken place. US says allies were informedWhile acknowledging concerns among allies, Rubio said they were aware changes were under discussion even if they were not fully satisfied with them. Rubio also said troop deployments were being reassessed as part of broader global military commitments, including operations outside Europe. Trump links move to Polish tiesTrump announced the new deployment to Poland while Nato ministers were meeting in Sweden. In a post on his Truth Social platform, he linked the decision to Washington’s relationship with Polish President Karol Nawrocki, whom Trump supported during Poland’s presidential election campaign. Uncertainty over deployment plansThe US president did not clarify whether the extra troops were connected to the previously cancelled deployment or represented a separate operation altogether. Questions have also been raised about whether the troops leaving Germany could instead be redirected to Poland. Germany withdrawal adds to confusionEarlier this month, Washington confirmed plans to reduce its military presence in Germany after tensions between Trump and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over the conflict involving Iran. The overlapping announcements have left several allies uncertain about the direction of US military planning in Europe. Sweden highlights allied uneaseSwedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard said the mixed signals from Washington had been difficult for allies to interpret. “It is confusing indeed, and not always easy to navigate,” she said while hosting the Nato talks. US remains central to Nato defenceThe US remains Nato’s largest military power and has stationed troops across Europe for decades as part of the alliance’s collective defence structure. Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, European allies have repeatedly urged Washington to maintain a strong military presence on the continent. Large US military presence in EuropeGermany hosts the largest number of US troops in Europe, with more than 36,000 personnel stationed there. Poland and the UK each host around 10,000 US troops, while Italy has roughly 12,000. Trump presses Nato on spendingTrump has long criticised Nato members for relying too heavily on the US and failing to spend enough on defence. He has repeatedly argued that European allies should contribute more financially to the alliance. Europe moves toward self-relianceSeveral Nato countries have since pledged increases in defence spending, though tensions remain over Washington’s broader “America First” foreign policy approach. The White House has recently indicated that it plans to reduce overall US troop numbers in Europe as part of that strategy. Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte said Europe would continue moving towards greater military self-reliance. Rubio stresses value of allianceRubio also acknowledged longstanding debate within the US over the value of Nato, saying the alliance must remain beneficial not only for Europe but also for the United States. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 20:21:45 +0000