https://aseannow.com/rss/44-thailand-news.xml/National and regional news from all around ThailandenWhat about when he posts obviously false information online?Thu, 28 May 2026 20:54:19 +0000The administration of US President Donald Trump is preparing for the possible creation of a new $250 banknote that could feature his portrait, if Congress approves legislation allowing the move. Get today's headlines by email Current US law prohibits living people from appearing on American currency. However, Republican lawmakers allied with Trump have introduced a bill that would create an exception and authorise a commemorative $250 note tied to the country’s 250th anniversary celebrations. A spokesperson for the Treasury Department told the BBC that the agency was carrying out “appropriate planning and due diligence” in response to the proposal. Treasury Begins PreparationsAccording to the Treasury Department, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) has already been asked to begin preparing possible designs for the commemorative note, although no artwork has been released publicly. The Washington Post first reported the department’s planning efforts. The Treasury spokesperson said the BEP was “moving proactively” in case the legislation becomes law, adding that the note would recognise “the 250th Anniversary of our great nation”. Trump’s signature is already expected to appear on some US paper currency as part of the upcoming semiquincentennial commemorations. The legislation was introduced last year by Republican Representative Joe Wilson of South Carolina. It would still require approval from both chambers of Congress before any new note could be produced. Speaking at a White House briefing on Thursday, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the matter ultimately rested with Congress, though the Treasury was preparing in case lawmakers approved the proposal. Bessent also defended the idea, saying he did not see “anything untoward” about featuring the sitting president on a commemorative note linked to the nation’s anniversary. Legal and Political QuestionsThe proposal could face another legal hurdle because federal law currently specifies which denominations the Treasury is allowed to issue, and $250 notes are not included among them. Democratic Senator Mark Warner criticised the plan, arguing it showed misplaced priorities at a time when Americans were facing rising living costs. Warner said the administration appeared more focused on promoting Trump’s image than addressing issues such as housing, fuel and healthcare costs. He added that families would not need a $250 note “just to fill up their gas tanks” if more effort was spent lowering prices. Larger Bills No Longer CirculateThe largest denomination currently printed in the US is the $100 bill, which features founding father Benjamin Franklin. The United States previously issued larger notes, including $500, $1,000 and $10,000 bills, but they were discontinued in 1969. Although they remain legal tender, they are rarely seen outside private collections. Producing new currency designs is typically a lengthy process involving several agencies, including the Federal Reserve and the US Secret Service. Designs are usually kept secret until shortly before release to reduce counterfeiting risks and avoid public confusion. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing says note designs are normally made public six to eight months before launch for education and preparation purposes. It remains unclear whether a new $250 bill could be produced in time for the US anniversary celebrations on 4 July. Wider Push to Promote Trump BrandingSince returning to office last year, Trump and his allies have pursued several efforts to place his name and image on national institutions and symbols. The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts was renamed to include Trump’s name, while his portrait is set to appear on US passports. The presidential aircraft Air Force One is also being repainted using colours preferred by Trump. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 29 May 2026 View full articleThu, 28 May 2026 20:49:16 +0000Not exactly a Hugo Stiglitz is he.Thu, 28 May 2026 20:49:15 +0000REMINDER Before posting, note forum rule: Rule 4. You will not express disrespect of the King of Thailand or any member of the Thai royal family whether living or deceased. You will not criticize the monarchy as an institution. Speculation, comments or discussion of either a political or personal nature are not allowed when discussing His Majesty The King of Thailand or the Thai royal family. You will not link to or discuss any website which contravenes this rule.To breach this rule is a serious issue that will result in suspension or possible removal from the forum.Thu, 28 May 2026 20:47:43 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thanathorn-cleared-in-thai-section-112-case-r2053/Thailand’s Criminal Court has acquitted Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit in a lese-majeste case linked to a Facebook Live broadcast criticising the government’s Covid-19 vaccine procurement policy. The ruling removes the threat of criminal penalties under Section 112 and the Computer Crime Act against the Progressive Movement chairman. Get today's headlines by email The court delivered its verdict at Courtroom 814 of the Criminal Court at 9am on 28 May 2026. Prosecutors had accused Thanathorn of defaming or insulting the monarchy during a livestream on 18 January 2021 titled “Royal Vaccines: Who Gains and Who Loses”. The broadcast criticised the Prayut Chan-o-cha government’s handling of Covid-19 vaccine supplies and referred to Siam Bioscience and vaccine procurement arrangements. Thanathorn denied all charges and fought the case while on bail. Arriving at court before the ruling, he smiled, raised a clenched fist and told reporters he remained “in good spirits” before entering the building. Supporters gathered outside the Criminal Court to encourage Thanathorn during the hearing. Among those attending was former Move Forward Party list MP Amarat Chokepamitkul. In its judgment, the court ruled that the livestream referred to then-prime minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha and his administration’s management of Covid-19 vaccines, rather than constituting criticism or insult directed at the monarchy. The court also found that references to Siam Bioscience were factual and did not amount to defamation. The ruling stated that Thanathorn’s comments questioned whether the prime minister could handle vaccine management effectively, adding that the public would suffer if the administration failed in its duties. Judges concluded that his actions did not amount to defamation, insult or threats against the monarchy under Section 112, nor did they violate the Computer Crime Act. The case stemmed from heightened scrutiny of public discussion surrounding vaccine procurement during the Covid-19 pandemic. Authorities argued that the livestream distorted information and could lead the public to misunderstand issues connected to the monarchy and Siam Bioscience. ThaiRath reported that the aacquittal is likely to draw attention because Section 112 cases remain politically sensitive in Thailand. No immediate indication was given on whether prosecutors would appeal the verdict. Picture courtesy of ThaiRath Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 29 May 2026Thu, 28 May 2026 20:44:19 +0000Thailand’s Criminal Court has acquitted Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit in a lese-majeste case linked to a Facebook Live broadcast criticising the government’s Covid-19 vaccine procurement policy. The ruling removes the threat of criminal penalties under Section 112 and the Computer Crime Act against the Progressive Movement chairman. Get today's headlines by email The court delivered its verdict at Courtroom 814 of the Criminal Court at 9am on 28 May 2026. Prosecutors had accused Thanathorn of defaming or insulting the monarchy during a livestream on 18 January 2021 titled “Royal Vaccines: Who Gains and Who Loses”. The broadcast criticised the Prayut Chan-o-cha government’s handling of Covid-19 vaccine supplies and referred to Siam Bioscience and vaccine procurement arrangements. Thanathorn denied all charges and fought the case while on bail. Arriving at court before the ruling, he smiled, raised a clenched fist and told reporters he remained “in good spirits” before entering the building. Supporters gathered outside the Criminal Court to encourage Thanathorn during the hearing. Among those attending was former Move Forward Party list MP Amarat Chokepamitkul. In its judgment, the court ruled that the livestream referred to then-prime minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha and his administration’s management of Covid-19 vaccines, rather than constituting criticism or insult directed at the monarchy. The court also found that references to Siam Bioscience were factual and did not amount to defamation. The ruling stated that Thanathorn’s comments questioned whether the prime minister could handle vaccine management effectively, adding that the public would suffer if the administration failed in its duties. Judges concluded that his actions did not amount to defamation, insult or threats against the monarchy under Section 112, nor did they violate the Computer Crime Act. The case stemmed from heightened scrutiny of public discussion surrounding vaccine procurement during the Covid-19 pandemic. Authorities argued that the livestream distorted information and could lead the public to misunderstand issues connected to the monarchy and Siam Bioscience. ThaiRath reported that the aacquittal is likely to draw attention because Section 112 cases remain politically sensitive in Thailand. No immediate indication was given on whether prosecutors would appeal the verdict. Picture courtesy of ThaiRath Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 29 May 2026 View full articleThu, 28 May 2026 20:44:19 +0000NFI. That's a new acronym to me. Would you be so kind as to post a link to the meaning of NFI as used in your post?Thu, 28 May 2026 20:39:57 +0000Negotiators from the United States and Iran have agreed on the framework of a proposal that would extend the current ceasefire for 60 days and open talks on the future of Iran’s nuclear programme, according to US officials. Get today's headlines by email The proposed agreement has not yet been approved by President Donald Trump or Iran’s leadership, the officials told the BBC. However, reports from Tehran suggested the arrangement was not yet settled. Iran’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency cited a source close to the negotiations who said the proposal had neither been finalised nor formally confirmed. Ceasefire remains fragileThe developments come after several days of renewed tensions between the two countries, which have accused each other of violating the ceasefire. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it had targeted a US military base in the region following overnight American strikes on Iranian targets. On Wednesday, Iranian state media published what it described as elements of an unofficial 14-point memorandum of understanding. The reported draft included provisions for lifting Washington’s naval blockade of Iranian ports, withdrawing US forces from areas near Iran, and restoring non-military shipping through the Strait of Hormuz under joint Iranian and Omani management. The White House rejected the reported document, calling it a “complete fabrication”. Shipping and sanctions at centre of talksThe Strait of Hormuz remains a key issue in the negotiations. Around one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies normally pass through the waterway, and recent disruptions have affected international energy markets. Reports suggest the proposed deal would allow unrestricted commercial passage through the strait, while Iran would have 30 days to remove naval mines from the channel. The agreement could also include US sanctions waivers enabling Iran to resume oil exports, alongside the lifting of the American naval blockade. Progress uncertain despite optimismBoth governments had indicated last week that progress was being made towards an agreement, fuelling expectations of a breakthrough announcement. Since the ceasefire began on 8 April, Trump has repeatedly said the two sides were nearing a deal. Yet previous rounds of diplomacy have failed to produce lasting agreements. Negotiations held in Islamabad days after the ceasefire took effect ended without a substantive outcome. Senior US officials, including Trump himself, have continued to warn that military action remains an option if talks collapse. Last week, Trump said he had come within an hour of authorising new strikes on Iran before deciding against it following appeals from US allies. Speaking during a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, Trump said discussions were moving forward but described the Iranian proposal as “not there yet”. Questions remain over whether Trump will ultimately approve the latest framework agreement. Nuclear programme still unresolvedAny extension of the ceasefire would allow negotiators to move to more complex issues surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme, including the future of its remaining stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Trump has previously suggested the uranium could either be removed by the US or diluted in Iran or a third country. The news website Axios, which first reported the tentative agreement, said Trump had been briefed on the proposal but had not yet approved it and planned to consider it for several days. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent declined to confirm reports of an agreement during a White House briefing. “It’s always a mistake to get out ahead of the president,” he said, adding that any final decision would rest with Trump. Asked whether a future peace settlement could include reconstruction assistance for Iran, Bessent replied: “We’ve got to get to the deal before we get to the other side.” Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 29 May 2026 View full articleThu, 28 May 2026 20:38:39 +0000Piss poor and naive. Modern Russian has a huge internal security apparatus, extensive surveillance capabilities, dense urban populations, and a state that already treats dissent as a security threat. Small-scale sabotage would probably be infiltrated quickly, crushed harshly, and used to justify even wider repression. The Russian state has long portrayed opposition movements as extremists, terrorists, or foreign-backed destabilizers. If opposition groups moved from protest, journalism, and civil resistance into bombings or sabotage, the government could claim vindication. Putin has form in staging fake terrorist attacks to rally people to the flag. All you do is strengthen Putin's grip. Maybe that's something you want, given your politics.Thu, 28 May 2026 20:34:25 +0000Been living in Pattaya for 20+ years, Its the reason I stay... well work too of course.Thu, 28 May 2026 20:30:07 +0000He only lies when he opens his mouth.Thu, 28 May 2026 20:20:34 +0000This! I lived for 15 years in Thailand, but also never went to Pattaya durign that whole time. I am now back in Germany, only doing my yearly visit with/to the family, and had a few days in Pattaya as a true tourist. Conclusion from that visit: if Pattaya (or Bangkok) would have been my first impression of Thailand, I would never have chosen it to spend a whole chapter of my life there. Sure Pattaya can be / undoubtedly is fun, but "too much" of it. I love Thailand because it is a relaxed, laid-back and almost simple place (in Isaan), instead of an orgy of neon lights; at least I would not be able to have this much hectic rush every single day.Thu, 28 May 2026 20:20:05 +0000Thu, 28 May 2026 20:14:35 +0000It's not an 'obscure website in Thailand', it's one of the most prominent English language outlets regarding Thai matters. First result on Google for 'Thai forum'. If one of my family members had died in Thailand, I would definitely look for information on Google and would come across this website in less than a minute. AN is on the first page of Google results for query "Brit died after falling off pickup in Thailand": We should definitely be careful of what we say, because there are good chances his loved ones will read this thread.Thu, 28 May 2026 20:07:43 +0000Not having a printer will make this difficult; but there are endless shops around where you can have stuff printed from a USB stick -- I for example would try a photo atelier shop, or somebody creating advertising; you have them even in deepest Isaan (that is, at least in any medium-sized city). One should be able to pull data from a phone just as from a USB stick. In case you have a laptop, you can pair your phone with it and pull out the data yourself and then put it on a USB stick if you do not want to trust anybody for giving direct access to your phone. Thais with phones that can make pictures and then are able to send emails with photo attachments is... everybody above the age of learning to walk in Thailand. Which means, literally everybody around you will have an internet-ready phone in their pocket. Girlfriend, neighbor, random person grabbed from the street: Thais are more likely to be helpful than not, alone for the fact that the get to tell a story on how they could be a good Samaritan to a farang is likely worth the effort for them. Of course if we talk such a low value of just a few Baht, jumping through those hoops is likely more waste (of your living time) than useful. But if the amount is higher, those would be ideas I woud try.Thu, 28 May 2026 20:05:24 +0000Russia can still find men for the front. What it increasingly cannot do is get them there. As the Kremlin scrambles to replace staggering battlefield losses, Ukraine is shifting the war away from trench assaults and toward something far more devastating for Moscow: a systematic destruction of Russian logistics. The result is a growing bottleneck that threatens to leave newly recruited troops stranded far from the fight. Ukraine Targets the Arteries of War For months, Russian commanders have relied on so-called “meat storm” tactics — throwing repeated waves of infantry at Ukrainian positions to grind down defences through sheer attrition. But Ukrainian forces are now attacking the system that keeps those assaults alive. According to assessments from the Institute for the Study of War, Kyiv has intensified drone strikes against roads, supply corridors and transport hubs across occupied territory. The M-14 highway linking Russia to occupied Crimea has emerged as a major target. Supply routes feeding southern Ukraine and Donetsk are also under sustained attack, disrupting fuel, ammunition and troop movements. A ‘Logistics Lockdown’ Takes Shape Kyiv is no longer hiding the strategy. On May 27, Ukraine’s Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov announced what he described as a “logistics lockdown” campaign designed to isolate Russian frontline units. The plan goes beyond occasional drone raids. Ukraine is pouring money into elite drone units, fast-tracking new technology and launching competitions to accelerate battlefield innovation. In several sectors, Ukrainian drone operators now hold a decisive edge. Constant aerial surveillance is making it increasingly difficult for Russian troops to move undetected, even at night. Russia’s Numbers Problem Is Getting Worse Western analysts and Ukrainian officials say Russia is already losing soldiers faster than it can replace them. But manpower alone no longer guarantees battlefield momentum. Even pro-Kremlin military bloggers have acknowledged that Ukrainian drone reconnaissance is crippling infiltration tactics once used to secure slow territorial gains. The deeper problem for Moscow is strategic. More recruits may simply mean more men trapped in broken supply lines, exposed roads and drone-monitored kill zones. A War Defined by Machines The battlefield is changing faster than Russia’s recruitment drives can adapt. Ukraine’s strategy is turning logistics into a frontline weapon, using relatively cheap drones to choke an army built around mass and momentum. For the Kremlin, the danger is becoming increasingly clear: without secure movement, fresh troops risk becoming dead weight long before they ever reach the trenches. Putin can recruit all the soldiers he wants — they won't make a difference thanks to Ukraine's new strategyThu, 28 May 2026 20:02:00 +0000Ah, an example of Whataboutism, first used by Stalin to justify his actions.Thu, 28 May 2026 19:59:14 +0000AI slop. The last thing two Birmingham mates are going to do is order a som tam. Why (and there is no antagonising intent here) did you not write this yourself, as you would have done before 2024?Thu, 28 May 2026 19:37:44 +0000Thu, 28 May 2026 19:32:25 +0000PThis is more than just a fatal drunk‑driving crash, we are told that a senior NACC official allegedly suggested that someone else take the blame! Even more damning, witnesses are saying he crossed lanes, dragged the bike, tried to flee the scene, and then tried to pull rank. Thais are already suspicious of the NACC's reputation for protecting insiders. This incident can only add further to people's perception of the NACC. And their scrambling to clarify his job title won’t help. It reads more like damage control than accountability.Thu, 28 May 2026 19:18:52 +0000Saw one of these on the road today. Smaller than expected, looked kind of cool and chunky but I think they are definitely aftermarket wheels. It is, however, unmistakably Champ from the front. Something slightly Nissan Cube about it too. The obvious Champness is a total turn off though.Thu, 28 May 2026 19:18:16 +0000Either you had led a very sheltered life up until then or you have a very fragile ego to react in such a way.Thu, 28 May 2026 19:16:30 +0000This is one of the stupidest questions I have ever heard.Thu, 28 May 2026 19:16:08 +0000Imagine taking away the use of undercover license plates, Dem states are doing it to protect criminals. The Dem's are lost and it shows! This blatant obstruction protects criminals from detection and endangers federal officers, all in the name of resisting immigration enforcement ,yet another example of the two tiered system where the left shields its priorities at the expense of public safety.Thu, 28 May 2026 19:14:51 +0000There are free press and there are US Press, at the best slightly better than bingo gossip....on a good day. Get a life.Thu, 28 May 2026 19:00:10 +0000