Global crude oil prices fell by more than 5 percent after U.S. President Donald Trump indicated progress in diplomatic discussions concerning the Middle East. The decline came amid easing investor concerns over potential conflict involving Iran. On Wednesday, Brent crude dropped to 105.70 dollars per barrel, marking a significant downturn in the international energy market.

Analysts attributed the fall to reduced fears of escalation in the region following Trump’s remarks that negotiations with Iran were in their final stage. However, he also warned that further attacks could occur if Tehran refused to agree to a peace deal. This mixed message created both optimism for a possible settlement and lingering uncertainty about future tensions.

Experts noted that while the market experienced temporary relief, the overall uncertainty in the global energy sector remains unresolved, leaving investors cautious about the next developments in U.S.-Iran relations.

China and Russia have jointly called for an end to what they describe as unilateral interference in international trade and supply chains. The appeal came through a joint statement issued by both countries, emphasizing that certain states, alliances, and their partners are taking unilateral actions that disrupt global maritime transport and threaten the integrity of supply networks.

Although the statement did not name any specific maritime route, observers believe the remarks may refer to the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping passage. The two nations also stressed that cooperation in maritime infrastructure, including ports, should be based on market and commercial principles to avoid politicization and excessive security measures.

The joint declaration reflects a shared position by Beijing and Moscow on maintaining open and stable maritime trade routes, highlighting their opposition to actions that could destabilize global commerce.

Two Chinese supertankers carrying a total of four million barrels of crude oil crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, according to shipping data from Kpler and LSEG. The vessels had been waiting in the Persian Gulf for more than two months before departing through the key maritime route.

The report noted that only a few ships have recently passed through the strait, but the successful resumption of navigation and a softer tone from the White House have contributed to a slight decline in global oil prices. On Tuesday, President Trump stated that a peace agreement with Iran was close, adding that any deal would prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.

The developments suggest a cautious easing of tensions in the region, with potential implications for oil markets and diplomatic relations involving China, Iran, and the United States.

China and Russia issued a joint statement condemning various military activities around the world, appearing to reference recent US actions in Iran and Venezuela over the past six months. Presidents Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin criticized what they described as treacherous military attacks, the use of negotiations as a cover for aggression, assassinations of sovereign leaders, and efforts to destabilize internal politics or incite regime change.

The statement asserted that such actions seriously violate the principles of the United Nations Charter, international law, and established norms of international relations. It warned that these behaviors cause irreparable harm to the global order built after World War II.

Amid growing concerns about the current world system during Donald Trump’s second term, Xi and Putin are positioning themselves as advocates for a new international order, signaling a shift in global power dynamics.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin have signed a joint statement aimed at deepening strategic coordination and strengthening their good-neighborly and friendly cooperation. The agreement, announced on May 20, 2026, includes plans to sign around 20 additional documents covering trade, technological cooperation, and other areas. Officials from both countries have already signed multiple agreements in fields such as trade, technology, intellectual property, and scientific research.

Following the signing, Xi Jinping stated that China-Russia relations have reached their highest level of comprehensive strategic partnership. He emphasized that the two nations treat each other with mutual respect and equality, describing the relationship as entering a new starting point. Xi also highlighted plans to expand cooperation in artificial intelligence and technological innovation.

Xi further said that China and Russia must act as responsible major powers to uphold international justice and oppose all forms of unilateral dominance and attempts to distort history.

Russia and China have reached a general agreement on the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline project, according to a close aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The project, once implemented, would enable Russia to supply up to 50 billion cubic meters of gas to China annually. Putin’s press secretary Dmitry Peskov told reporters that while some issues remain unresolved, a basic understanding has already been achieved. The information was reported by the state-run news agency RIA Novosti.

Peskov added that the agreement between China and Russia includes the pipeline’s route and construction methods. However, no further details or timeline for the project have been disclosed. The report did not mention any official signing or specific schedule for the next steps.

The development marks another step in energy cooperation between the two countries, though the absence of a detailed plan leaves the project’s immediate timeline uncertain.

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the suspension of a planned military strike on Iran amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East. He stated that the decision was made to allow room for diplomatic discussions to resolve the crisis. Following the announcement, international crude oil prices dropped by more than one percent.

According to market analysts, the price of Brent crude fell to around 110 dollars per barrel, while U.S. WTI crude declined to about 103 dollars per barrel. Investors and energy traders are now closely monitoring diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran, as concerns persist over the long-term stability of the Strait of Hormuz.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical maritime routes, previously handling about one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. Any instability in this region could have a significant impact on global energy markets.

U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Chinese President Xi Jinping assured him Beijing is not sending any weapons to Iran. Trump made the remarks while speaking to reporters at the White House, describing Xi’s assurance as a positive commitment and expressing his trust and appreciation for the Chinese leader’s words.

The statement follows reports from the previous month claiming that China was planning to send weapons to Iran, allegations that Beijing dismissed as baseless. Trump’s comments suggest that direct communication between the United States and China continues over the Iran issue, despite tensions and speculation in international media.

Analysts cited in the report indicated that this exchange could serve as a diplomatic signal aimed at preventing further complications in the Middle East situation, reflecting ongoing engagement between Washington and Beijing on sensitive regional matters.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is visiting Beijing to mark the 25th anniversary of the China-Russia Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation. The visit follows a long history of close ties between Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, who have described each other as best friends. Despite the ceremonial tone, analysts note that the relationship is increasingly unequal, with China setting most of the terms due to its stronger economy and global position.

Experts cited in the report describe Russia as being heavily influenced by China, particularly in trade, technology, and energy, as Western sanctions have pushed Moscow closer to Beijing. China remains Russia’s largest trading partner, while Russia supplies vital energy resources and military technology. The two countries avoid criticizing each other on human rights or political issues, maintaining a pragmatic partnership based on shared opposition to Western dominance.

Although the partnership is asymmetrical, analysts believe it remains stable in the short term. Both sides see continued cooperation as essential, given limited alternatives and mutual strategic benefits, especially in energy and defense sectors.

Hollywood actress Hannah Einbinder, known for her role in the comedy-drama series 'Hacks', reaffirmed her support for Palestinian rights during the 'Kering Women in Motion Talks' at the Cannes Film Festival. She said she would continue to speak out for Palestinians despite potential professional risks, emphasizing that fear of being blacklisted would not silence her. Einbinder described speaking up as a responsibility, stating that her career could never outweigh a human life.

She expressed pride in being part of the ongoing voices of Palestinians and their allies, adding that artists have a duty not only to entertain but also to stand against injustice. At Cannes, her new film 'Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma' premiered in the 'Un Certain Regard' section and received a six-minute standing ovation. In the film, she plays 'Chris', an independent filmmaker exploring themes of sexuality, body discomfort, identity, and desire.

Einbinder also reflected on the emotional end of 'Hacks', noting her sadness at saying goodbye to her character Ava. Her outspoken stance on social and political issues continues to distinguish her in Hollywood.

Several countries have condemned Israel after its navy intercepted the Gaza-bound humanitarian convoy known as the 'Global Sumud Flotilla' in international waters. The incident, which occurred on Monday, involved the detention of multiple ships and activists, sparking a joint statement led by Jordan that labeled the action a violation of international law and human rights.

According to Jordan’s foreign ministry, Jordan, Indonesia, Spain, Pakistan, Brazil, Bangladesh, Turkey, Colombia, Libya, and the Maldives jointly denounced Israel’s move. The statement expressed deep concern over the attack on the flotilla and the detention of its participants, urging the immediate release of all detained personnel and respect for their rights and dignity.

The ministry further stated that repeated attacks on peaceful humanitarian missions reflect Israel’s ongoing disregard for international law and freedom of navigation. The leaders called on the international community to take effective measures in response to the incident.

Global health experts have warned that the world’s capacity to prevent and respond to infectious disease outbreaks is weakening. The Global Preparedness Monitoring Board (GPMB) issued a report on Monday stating that outbreaks are becoming more frequent and severe, while investments in pandemic preparedness are failing to keep pace with rising risks. The warning came amid ongoing Ebola outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.

The report highlighted that climate crises, armed conflicts, and geopolitical divisions are worsening the threat of disease spread, while global cooperation is being undermined by political and commercial interests. The World Health Organization (WHO) convened an emergency scientific consultation to guide vaccine and treatment research. WHO officials also reported shortages of protective equipment in Kinshasa, with aid groups such as the International Rescue Committee and Médecins Sans Frontières assisting response efforts.

The GPMB urged world leaders to finalize a pandemic treaty ensuring equitable access to vaccines and treatments and to establish a permanent independent monitoring system. It warned that continued erosion of trust and cooperation could leave every country more vulnerable to the next pandemic.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to mark a major technological shift, with artificial intelligence (AI) at its core. Hosted across 16 cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the 48-team tournament will begin on June 11 and feature 104 matches. Each team will have its own AI model capable of analyzing opponents’ strategies through video clips, 3D avatars, and real-time data. Coaches will be able to preview potential outcomes of tactical changes, while players will receive detailed performance analyses.

Developed by Lenovo, the “Football AI Pro” system processes hundreds of millions of FIFA data points across more than 2,000 indicators. Analysts suggest this could reduce the technological gap between rich and smaller teams, making competition more balanced. AI will also enhance offside decisions through instant 3D body scans, improving VAR accuracy and transparency for fans.

Beyond the pitch, each stadium will feature a digital twin to monitor crowds, safety, and player health in real time. The tournament is expected to generate over 90 petabytes of data, with autonomous vehicles and humanoid robots assisting in transport and stadium operations.

A Reuters analysis published on Monday reported that global companies have suffered losses of at least $25 billion due to the ongoing war situation surrounding Iran. The report stated that listed firms across the United States, Europe, and Asia cited rising energy prices, supply chain disruptions, and interruptions to trade routes caused by Iran’s activities in the Strait of Hormuz as major factors behind the losses.

According to the analysis, at least 279 companies identified the conflict as a key reason for implementing defensive measures aimed at minimizing financial damage. The report highlights how the instability in the region has affected international trade and corporate operations across multiple sectors.

The findings underscore the widespread economic impact of the Iran conflict on global markets, particularly through energy and logistics channels, as companies continue to adjust their strategies to mitigate further risks.

Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, Tunisia and Turkey have officially announced the start of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah and the dates for Eid al-Adha celebrations. According to Indonesia and Malaysia, Dhul Hijjah will begin on May 18, making May 27 the day of Eid al-Adha in both countries. Tunisia and Turkey have also confirmed May 27 as the date for Eid celebrations.

Brunei, however, reported that the moon for Dhul Hijjah was not sighted, meaning May 18 will be the last day of the previous month, Dhu al-Qa'dah. As a result, Dhul Hijjah will begin there on May 19, and Eid al-Adha will be observed on May 28.

The report also noted that several other Gulf countries are expected to announce their moon-sighting results soon, which will determine their own Eid al-Adha dates.