Social media users shared clips from an impromptu celebration where the Syrian actor appeared dancing alongside Lebanese star Carmen Bsaibes to the tune of “Ya Nasini,” highlighting the genuine friendship and harmony between the two celebrities away from the public eye.
Are Mahmoud Nsr and Nour Ali romantically involved?
There are persistent rumors suggesting a romantic connection between Nour Ali and Mahmoud Nsr. However, no credible sources have confirmed or denied these speculations, leaving fans to speculate.
The official X account of the White House recently shared a new AI-generated video inspired by Rick and Morty, featuring U.S. President Donald Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, and several other senators. The animated clip showed Trump greeting a cheering crowd outside the White House, followed by chaotic sequences including green portals, ICE agents apprehending “illegal aliens,” Democratic Senator Chuck Schumer depicted as a robot, and Trump alongside Vance battling a massive alien on a UFO in the United States. The caption on the post read, “Hop in… best dimension yet.”
As of reporting, the post attracted over 2.3 million views and generated significant interaction on the platform. However, the responses were mixed, with many users labeling it as “propaganda.”
Arresting ‘illegal aliens’ in the ‘best dimension’: White House shares Rick and Morty video of Trump
“Jangling keys for dumb babies. Deporting illegal aliens is featured prominently (though in reality, there are no mass deportations), and a war with Iran for Israel isn’t shown at all—it’s the main focus of the Trump administration.”
“Promises made, promises forgotten” could easily serve as the slogan for MAGA. Instead of addressing issues like jobs, affordability, or inflation, attention is always diverted through headlines, scandals, or spectacles to keep the public distracted.”
“You all spend your time creating fake content due to the failure of your actual policies.”
The White House’s X account is no stranger to leveraging AI videos and pop culture references to promote the Trump administration and connect with younger audiences. However, this approach has garnered mixed reactions, with some fans of pop culture urging the White House to stay clear of their favorite shows, movies, and games.
Digital Phablet – Recently, Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo stirred controversy by reportedly liking an Instagram post accusing FIFA of corruption. The post alleged that the organization and its president, Gianni Infantino, assisted Argentina in reaching the 2026 World Cup final.
Ronaldo’s online activity quickly made waves across social media platforms, though he has not publicly addressed his stance. Beyond his personal opinion, Argentina’s national team has faced repeated accusations of favoritism, with many fans pointing fingers at FIFA and fueling conspiracy theories online.
His action of liking the post has reignited a long-standing rivalry between him and Argentina’s Lionel Messi.
Ronaldo Likes Video Accusing FIFA of Bias Favoring Argentina
In a tweet, Mario Nawfal shared, “🇵🇹🇦🇷 Cristiano Ronaldo liked a video claiming FIFA is outright corrupt, helping Argentina get to the final. Targeting Infantino and the entire setup for Messi. The rivalry never ends. CR7 throwing shade from the sidelines.”
— Mario Nawfal, July 21, 2026
A social media user on X (formerly Twitter) commented, “That’s why he’s the GOAT — he’s the only one brave enough to stand up to corruption and has been exposing FIFA for years. Why act surprised now? He did it during the Argentina scandal.”
Another user wrote, “Everyone saw the corruption with their own eyes. Well done, Ronaldo. Respect for him has only grown after this World Cup.”
Following Argentina’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Egypt in the round of 16, claims of FIFA favoritism intensified. Egypt led 2-0 before Argentina mounted a comeback, scoring three goals in the second half. The refereeing decisions drew scrutiny, with questionable VAR calls—including a disallowed goal and denied penalty for Egypt.
Egyptian coach Hossam Hassan accused French referee François Letexier of bias, suggesting the match was “rigged” to favor Argentina. Hassan stated, “Maybe they wanted to keep the reigning champions in the tournament. Maybe they wanted Messi to stay in the hunt.”
Additionally, Mostafa Ziko, whose goal was disallowed, told reporters post-match, “The referee was unfair and undermined the efforts of an entire nation. The trophy is going to Argentina.” Since then, fans have jokingly dubbed Argentina “VARgentina” in reference to the controversial officiating.
Gabriel Perez adjusts the teleprompter before US President Donald Trump delivers remarks regarding the Administration’s National Security Strategy at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington DC, US. — Reuters/File
Gabriel Perez, longtime teleprompter operator for President Donald Trump, is currently under federal investigation for possible insider trading related to prediction market platform Kalshi, according to two sources familiar with the case.
Kalshi detected unusual trading activity during its customer onboarding and market monitoring processes, which prompted the company to refer the matter to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, one of the sources said.
“Our surveillance team quickly identified and reported these trades to the CFTC after an internal exchange investigation. We’ve been working with regulators and have provided all relevant evidence,” said Robert DeNault, Kalshi’s head of enforcement, in a statement to Reuters.
Perez, the teleprompter operator, is cooperating fully with the CFTC, the second person familiar with the investigation added. Both sources requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the case.
“The president is aware of the teleprompter operator’s situation, and the staff member is currently on unpaid leave,” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters Thursday. She later confirmed Perez will no longer be working at the White House.
When asked if other White House staff members had access to Kalshi or Polymarket on official devices, Leavitt responded that she was unaware. She also stated there are no known cases of other staff using privileged information for betting purposes.
Increase in Insider Trading Investigations
Recent months have seen multiple officials and executives under scrutiny for insider trading allegations involving prediction market platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi.
Earlier this year, a US Army soldier faced charges for placing bets connected to the detention of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro on Polymarket. In June, federal regulators launched an inquiry into former Congressmember George Santos over potential insider trading on Kalshi.
“Mention markets” on Kalshi allow traders to bet on whether certain words or phrases will be spoken during public events such as speeches, broadcasts, or corporate earnings calls.
Regulatory authorities, including the CFTC, have expressed concerns about these markets, citing vulnerabilities to insider information and manipulation by those with early access to speech transcripts or prepared remarks.
Kalshi froze Perez’s account before he could withdraw over $90,000 in profits, according to sources.
Internal investigations involved a thorough interview with Perez, and whistleblowers flagged irregular trades in several mention markets, the first source added.
In June, Kalshi announced plans to require users to disclose employment details for certain sensitive contracts and to introduce a whistleblower portal, aiming to meet regulatory standards for market fairness.
Startups like Kalshi and Polymarket have faced ongoing regulatory challenges over concerns about market manipulation and insider trading. These platforms enable trading on the outcomes of future events, including sports, elections, and weather conditions.
ABC News was the first to report the CFTC’s investigation into Perez earlier today.
Digital Phablet – Justin Trudeau Makes a Surprise Appearance in Katy Perry’s New Video
Fans of Katy Perry were left surprised after she shared a playful social media clip featuring an unexpected guest star. Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made a brief cameo as a backup dancer in both TikTok and Instagram videos promoting Perry’s latest single, “Watch It Burn.”
The footage was filmed in Stuttgart, Germany, during Perry’s European tour. The singer dressed casually while dancing along with her crew until Trudeau unexpectedly appeared in the frame, matching the lighthearted vibe of the choreography.
Justin Trudeau’s Quick Dance Moment
Although Trudeau’s cameo lasted only a few seconds, it quickly became the talk of the video. Fans flooded the comments section with jokes about his surprise performance as Perry’s backup dancer, while others praised the duo for sharing a fun, carefree moment together.
The clip was aimed at promoting Perry’s song “Watch It Burn,” which has become a signature track on her current tour. The energetic conclusion of the video perfectly complemented the lively dance routine.
The video rapidly gained traction on TikTok, Instagram, and X, sparking a wide range of reactions. Many viewers found Trudeau’s appearance amusing and appreciated his efforts to support Perry’s musical journey.
Some joked that the former leader had unexpectedly discovered a second career as a pop star backup dancer. Several comments highlighted how seamlessly he blended into the routine despite his brief appearance.
This playful moment also started fresh rumors about Perry and Trudeau’s relationship, which has piqued widespread curiosity since they reportedly began dating last year.
Perry had previously shared a romantic photo of Trudeau kissing her in an Instagram carousel showcasing her trip to Germany, just days before posting the dance video.
As Perry continues to promote “Watch It Burn” amid a busy summer of festivals across Europe, she has described the song as a testament to strength during challenging personal times—making it one of the emotional highlights of her current shows.
Despite the meaningful inspiration behind the track, Perry’s latest social media post shows she still embraces fun and spontaneity.
Note: The content is a unique human-written rephrasing of the original, with all company and individual names preserved except “ALBAWABA,” replaced with “Digital Phablet.”
A Ryanair airplane flying over northern France on September 27, 2018. — Reuters
A man was nearly ejected from a Ryanair flight when it suddenly detached mid-air en route to Germany, according to witnesses and officials on Friday. Other passengers managed to pull him back inside.
The individual, identified as a tourist from Serbia traveling from Thessaloniki, Greece, to Memmingen, Germany, was hospitalized with friction burns but remains in stable condition, authorities reported.
“Most of us had fallen asleep, eyes closed. Then came a loud bang, like a tire blowing out,” one passenger told Radio Thessaloniki.
“Right after, we realized there was a decompression. There were screams… For a moment, I thought someone had accidentally opened the emergency door,” she added.
“The oxygen masks dropped, and there was a strong smell. One passenger’s head and shoulders were outside the window. Luckily, he hadn’t unbuckled his seatbelt,” she explained.
Other travelers nearby helped pull him back into the cabin. Greek media reports indicated the incident occurred over North Macedonia and that the window was broken by a piece of debris that separated from one of the plane’s engines.
Ryanair issued a statement saying the flight returned to Thessaloniki shortly after takeoff after a passenger window detached. The plane landed normally, and passengers disembarked at the terminal.
A replacement aircraft was provided to carry the remaining passengers to Memmingen, the airline confirmed.
Three sons of late Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei attend their father’s funeral prayers at Imam Khomeini Grand Mosalla, Tehran, July 5, 2026. — X/@Tasnimnews_Fa
On Sunday, the three sons of the late Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei paid respects by praying beside his coffin and those of four other family members. Mojtaba, the son who has now succeeded him as Iran’s supreme leader, was absent from the ceremony.
State television broadcasted footage of Mostafa, Meysam, and Masoud Khamenei praying behind the coffins displayed in Tehran’s Imam Khomeini Grand Mosalla, a large religious complex.
To demonstrate their collective devotion, the Islamic Republic is holding a week of large funeral processions for Khamenei, including taking his remains to religious sites in neighboring Iraq.
Following a day of indoor viewing for high-ranking Iranian officials and foreign dignitaries, Khamenei’s coffin was publicly exhibited outdoors on Saturday, protected under glass along with the coffins of his daughter, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, and his 14-month-old granddaughter.
Mojtaba, who was reportedly injured in the attack that killed his father and other family members on February 28 during a bombing by Israel and the U.S. at the start of the conflict, has not been seen publicly or shown in any images.
The ongoing four-month war was paused through a ceasefire under an agreement with Washington, which Iranian officials claim will yield significant economic benefits and a perceived victory over a superpower.
U.S. President Donald Trump told Axios that the pause in peace negotiations was due to the funeral proceedings.
On Sunday, Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf also participated in prayer behind the coffins.
Masoud Khamenei was visibly emotional, wiping tears with a keffiyeh—a checkered scarf symbolizing revolutionary solidarity with Palestinians—during the prayer recitation.
Large crowds of Iranians, many weeping and some beating their chests in mourning, gathered at the Mosalla, including overnight. The Iranian metro reported over 7 million trips from late Saturday to Sunday morning as mourners flocked to the site.
Once the funeral procession in central Tehran concludes on Monday, the remains are scheduled to be transported to the city of Qom, the religious capital of Iran, for ceremonies on Tuesday. From there, the body will be flown to Iraq for commemorations at Najaf and Kerbala on Wednesday, before returning to Iran on Thursday for a final procession in Mashhad, where he will be laid to rest near the tomb of another revered imam.
U.S. President Donald Trump talks with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during a working lunch with G7 and Middle Eastern leaders in Evian-les-Bains, France, June 16, 2026. — Reuters
Trump accuses Meloni of trying to mend ties with Washington.
Meloni criticizes Trump for “constant, unprovoked” attacks.
“My popularity isn’t your concern,” Meloni tells Trump.
WASHINGTON: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni responded sharply to U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday, describing his repeated, unprovoked insults as “nonsensical” following his escalation of a diplomatic dispute by claiming she repeatedly sought a photo opportunity with him.
This exchange has created a rare personal rift between Trump and one of Europe’s leading right-wing figures, who has presented herself as a bridge between America and Europe during Trump’s resurgence in power.
Initially, Trump told Italian broadcaster La7 that Meloni “begged” him for a picture at this week’s G7 summit in France, asserting he only agreed because he “felt sorry for her.”
Meloni strongly denied this, calling it “fabricated,” but Trump reaffirmed the claim in a post on Truth Social, alleging she repeatedly asked for a photo during the gathering.
He also accused her of attempting to repair relations with the U.S. for domestic political gains after Italy did not support U.S. action against Iran.
“Now, after the United States defeated Iran militarily, she wants to be friends again to boost her approval ratings. No thanks!!!” Trump wrote.
He suggested Meloni’s declining popularity in Italy might be linked to her refusal to allow U.S. military landings on Italian soil during the Iran conflict.
Trump also reiterated his longstanding criticism of U.S. defense spending for NATO allies, claiming that Washington contributes hundreds of billions to safeguard Italy and others.
In a vigorous reply on Instagram, Meloni accused Trump of relentless, senseless attacks and stated her popularity isn’t based on her relationship with him.
“Being your friend has certainly not helped, nor does it influence my standing,” she wrote.
She dismissed Trump’s criticism about the use of U.S. military bases in Italy, affirming that all were used according to agreements Rome had honored.
“Ultimately, my popularity isn’t your business. I suggest you focus on your own,” she added.
During the G7 summit in France, hosted by President Emmanuel Macron, US President Donald Trump made it clear who he believed was in charge. As he entered the final day’s morning session, Trump confidently declared, “I’m the boss,” just before taking his seat amid the other leaders already present. Macron responded with a smile and asked, “How are you?” to which Trump replied, “Good, thank you,” reflecting his signature style.
Trump, a former TV show host known for “The Apprentice” and its catchphrase “You’re fired,” has been the center of attention at the three-day summit in the spa town of Evian on Lake Geneva. His recent success in securing an agreement to end tensions with Iran and celebrating his 80th birthday have kept him in the spotlight.
Unlike the previous G7 gathering in Canada, where he left early, Trump stayed for the entire event and agreed to the summit’s communique, pleasing French officials. Macron has even extended an invitation to Trump for dinner at Versailles after the summit concludes, though it will be a modest affair, with Macron clarifying it won’t be a “gala” dinner.
A Lufthansa Boeing is surrounded by ambulances and other emergency vehicles after several staff members were injured when the nose gear of a Boeing 787 jetliner unexpectedly collapsed at a gate at Frankfurt Airport, according to Lufthansa, in Frankfurt, Germany, June 4, 2026. — X/@aviationbrk
A Lufthansa Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner tipped onto its nose at Frankfurt Airport on Thursday, injuring several staff members, the German airline reported.
The incident happened at 12:45 p.m. (10:45 a.m. GMT), just before passengers started boarding the plane scheduled to fly to Los Angeles.
“While the aircraft was parked, the nose landing gear unexpectedly retracted,” a company spokesperson told AFP.
Both cabin crew and ground staff were aboard, with several hurt and receiving medical care. The airline did not specify the number or severity of injuries.
Lufthansa said it is “working with relevant authorities to determine the exact cause.”
Reports from Aerotelegraph indicate the airplane is only a year old, delivered to Lufthansa in January.
Later Thursday evening, another Lufthansa spokesperson told AFP that injuries, including two crew members, were minor.
The flight to Los Angeles was canceled.
The aircraft is expected to be towed to a hangar later Thursday for further inspection before repairs commence, Lufthansa added.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar attend a joint press conference at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, India, on May 24, 2026. — Reuters
Rubio states that US immigration reforms are not targeted at India.
He mentions that every country has its share of foolish individuals.
Jaishankar emphasizes that legal mobility should remain unaffected under US regulations.
NEW DELHI: India raised concerns on Sunday regarding a recent US visa crackdown, a rare critique even while expressing general alignment with Secretary of State Marco Rubio on other contentious topics.
During his first visit to India, Rubio indicated that the two democracies shared common positions on major issues, putting aside recent tensions over trade, China, and Iran.
Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar acknowledged that both nations have a “convergence of national interests” but publicly addressed Rubio’s concerns about visa policies implemented by President Donald Trump.
Jaishankar highlighted that he “informed Secretary Rubio about challenges faced by legitimate travelers regarding visa processing.”
“While we collaborate to prevent illegal and irregular migration, we expect that lawful mobility will not be negatively impacted,” he added, underscoring the importance of visas for U.S.-India technological cooperation.
Trump has made efforts to restrict non-Western immigration, significantly increasing hurdles and fees for H-1B visas used predominantly by Indian tech professionals, leading to a sharp decline in applications.
Following up on recent policies, the Trump administration announced that even lawfully present applicants for permanent residency must leave the U.S. for processing, potentially splitting families for long periods.
His stance stems from critics who claim Indian workers displace skilled American workers, arguing they take jobs Americans could fill and often earn higher wages.
Last month, Trump reposted a far-right commentator who called India a “hellhole” and falsely claimed Indian immigrants lack proficiency in English.
Commenting on racist comments about Indians in the U.S., Rubio remarked, “Every country has its share of foolish individuals.”
“Our nation has been enriched by people who come here,” Rubio, whose parents are Cuban immigrants, stated.
He clarified that these immigration policies are not specific to India but are responses to broader migration issues in the United States.
Shared on All Fronts
Rubio, undertaking a rare extensive four-day, four-city visit to India, called the country “one of our most important strategic partners in the world.”
“It’s based on our shared values. We are the two largest democracies,” he said.
“Our nations are strategically aligned on all the critical issues shaping the future — tackling the major challenges of the modern era,” Rubio asserted.
This level of partnership declaration would have been notable two decades ago, as Washington prioritized strengthening ties with India, a nation with over a billion people.
However, recent shifts in US foreign policy under Trump have disrupted previous assumptions. He temporarily imposed tariffs on India, visited China with a friendly tone last week, and has shown support for Pakistan, which has positioned itself as a mediator in Iran-related conflicts.
Pakistan has also praised Trump’s diplomacy during last year’s brief conflict with India, which was triggered after unprovoked Indian strikes following an attack in Indian-administered Kashmir.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India was critical of Trump for not crediting him with ending the conflict.
Digital Phablet – Shakira again becomes the spotlight of the World Cup.
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The Colombian superstar has just released the official music video for “Dai Dai,” her latest collaboration with Burna Boy. This track has been chosen as the official song for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The video debuted this week, aligning with the growing anticipation and global excitement for the tournament.
The four-minute video highlights themes of football, music, and worldwide unity. It kicks off with appearances from top soccer stars such as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland, as they approach the field before the music drops.
Shakira then takes center stage with a series of visually captivating scenes shot in Miami. The clip features diverse landscapes inspired by various countries and cultures, emphasizing the international spirit of the event. A notable shot shows her standing atop Mexico City’s Angel of Independence monument, before transitioning to lively choreography set in a desert, accompanied by children. Later, Burna Boy makes a special guest appearance, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The video culminates with a football-themed finale, where Shakira enters a stadium, encircled by dancers dressed in costumes inspired by the flags of competing nations. This coming tournament will be hosted across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico—the first time in history three countries will share hosting duties.
At the end of the video, she pays homage to football legends through archival moments featuring Diego Maradona, Romário, Paolo Maldini, David Beckham, Kaká, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Lionel Messi.
“Dai Dai” was officially launched on May 15 via Sony Music Latin. FIFA has announced this track as the official anthem of the 2026 World Cup, with proceeds aiding the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund—dedicated to promoting education and soccer access for children worldwide.
This release marks another significant chapter in Shakira’s longstanding connection with the World Cup. Her 2010 hit “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” became one of the most iconic football songs ever, still closely linked to the tournament’s identity today. She also performed “La La La (Brazil 2014)” and made appearances during the 2006 celebrations.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will kick off on June 11 in Mexico City, culminating with the final on July 19 in New Jersey. FIFA has also confirmed that Shakira will co-headline the inaugural halftime show at the final, alongside Madonna and BTS.
Fans across social media are already raving about the new video, praising its energetic visuals and Shakira’s return to football music. As the countdown to kickoff continues, “Dai Dai” is rapidly becoming the soundtrack of the 2026 World Cup.
A video circulating online in recent hours appears to show Brazilian football star Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior, commonly known as Neymar, seemingly embarrassed after being followed by fans into the bathroom, where they reportedly took pictures and videos of him.
While Neymar was celebrating his selection for the upcoming World Cup, sources say that he was being tracked and recorded by supporters all the way to the restrooms. The footage allegedly depicts the player, dressed in a Brazilian national team T-shirt, glasses, and a cap, inside the bathroom with numerous cameras pointed at him. In the clip, Neymar appears to be trying to evade the paparazzi, but his efforts seem to be in vain.
Neymar Jr. Joins the 2026 World Cup:
The renowned Brazilian striker was visibly moved to tears upon learning his name had been included in Brazil’s 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, marking his return to the national team after more than two years away. The injury-prone athlete received the loudest applause during coach Carlo Ancelotti’s announcement of Brazil’s roster.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico — a first in tournament history — with 48 teams competing. The event will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, across 11 venues.
Was Neymar caught partially unclothed in the bathroom?
A fact-checking website has clarified that the viral video, which amassed millions of views within hours, does not depict Neymar. Instead, it shows his lookalike, Eigon Oliver, a popular online personality known for closely resembling the footballer. Oliver manages the Instagram account @sosiadoney and frequently posts videos mimicking Neymar’s style, appearance, and appearances, often leading to confusion among fans.
Screenshots of the viral content show the footage where supporters claim Neymar was caught in a compromising situation, but these reports are false, and the video features an impersonator rather than the star himself.
In this pool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia’s President Vladimir Putin is welcomed by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi upon his arrival at Beijing Capital Airport in Beijing late on May 19, 2026. — AFP
Putin looks for increased Chinese backing following Trump’s visit to Beijing.
Xi and Putin anticipated to discuss the “Power of Siberia 2” gas pipeline.
Kremlin states leaders will address regional and global issues.
Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing late Tuesday for talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, a longtime friend, aiming to affirm their strong relationship just days after Donald Trump’s visit to China.
Putin’s trip confirmation came hours after Trump’s stop, which was China’s first visit by a U.S. president in almost ten years, with the goal of stabilizing tense relations.
He landed at Beijing Capital International Airport around 11:15 p.m. (3:15 p.m. GMT) on Tuesday, where Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and a military band welcomed him.
This visit mirrored Trump’s arrival closely, with both leaders emerging onto red carpets amid chants of “welcome”—this time, with Russian flags, rather than American.
The two are scheduled to discuss ways to deepen Russia-China strategic ties and exchange views on significant international and regional matters, according to a Kremlin statement.
Their alliance has strengthened since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, with Putin visiting Beijing annually as Russia faces worldwide diplomatic isolation.
Chinese honor guards march past the plane carrying Russia’s President Vladimir Putin upon his arrival at Beijing Capital Airport late on May 19, 2026. — AFP
Despite the friendly language, their relationship isn’t equal — Moscow relies heavily on Beijing, which is the main buyer of Russian oil under sanctions.
Possible topics for discussion include the construction of the “Power of Siberia 2” natural gas pipeline from Russia to China via Mongolia, serving as an overland alternative to marine imports from the Middle East, a project Moscow is eager to begin.
To set a positive tone, Xi and Putin exchanged heartfelt letters on Sunday commemorating 30 years of their countries’ strategic partnership.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Guo Jiakun praised the “lasting friendship” between the nations on Tuesday.
In a video message to the Chinese people, Putin declared that bilateral relations are at an “unprecedented level,” with trade ongoing growth.
Putin is welcomed by Chinese officials including Foreign Minister Wang Yi upon arriving at Beijing Capital Airport late on May 19, 2026. — AFP
“The closely strategic alliance between Russia and China plays an essential role in global stability. We aim for peace and widespread prosperity without targeting any third country,” Putin stated, without mentioning specific nations.
They are also expected to sign a joint declaration after their discussions.
Old friends greet each other
Xi welcomed Putin warmly as an “old friend” during his last visit to Beijing in September 2025, language not used with Trump last week.
In turn, Putin called Xi his “dear friend,” and intends to reinforce that their relationship remains unaffected by Trump’s visit.
Although Putin’s visit might lack Trump’s grandeur, “the Xi-Putin bond doesn’t need showy displays,” noted Patricia Kim from the Brookings Institution in Washington.
Both leaders see their ties as “stronger and more stable” than those between China and the U.S.
While China advocates for a diplomatic solution to the Ukraine conflict, it has so far refrained from condemning Russia’s military actions, positioning itself as neutral.
Trump and Xi discussed Ukraine last week, but no breakthroughs resulted.
Kim added, “Xi will probably brief Putin on his summit with Trump,” suggesting that Moscow remains confident no agreements were made that would undermine Russian interests.
Energy interests and oil plans
Putin hopes China will deepen economic support, especially after Trump claimed during his visit on Fox News that Beijing agreed to purchase US oil to satisfy its “insatiable” energy needs.
Russia depends on Chinese demand to fund its Ukraine conflict, and Lyle Morris from Asia Society explained that Putin is eager to hear Xi’s thoughts on China’s next moves in the Middle East, especially since Trump has indicated that Beijing should take a leading role.
Regarding the US-Israel-Iran tensions, their priorities might differ. China favors quicker resolution of the Strait of Hormuz issues to keep global trade flowing, while Russia benefits economically from the ongoing turmoil in Iran, which has relaxed sanctions against its energy sector, said James Char of Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University.
Sergei Lavrov, Russia’s Foreign Minister, mentioned in April that Moscow could compensate for China’s energy shortages resulting from Middle Eastern conflicts.
Experts like Joseph Webster suggest that stronger energy ties are likely to be a focus, with China seeking more Russian energy, especially as Russia shifts energy exports eastward in response to Ukraine’s attacks on its infrastructure.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, his wife Kim Hye Kyung, Indian President Droupadi Murmu, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi pose for a photograph during Lee’s ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, India, April 20, 2026. — Reuters
India and South Korea to strengthen collaboration in energy sector.
South Korea’s president makes their first state visit to India in eight years.
After India, the South Korean president will visit Vietnam.
India and South Korea announced plans on Monday to enhance their economic partnership by expanding cooperation in energy, essential minerals, shipbuilding, semiconductors, and steel, aiming to double their trade volume to $50 billion by 2030. The two nations also agreed to restart negotiations and energize their 2010 trade pact, seeking a more balanced trade relationship—India desires more equitable trade, while South Korea seeks greater market access to India’s rapidly growing economy.
President Lee Jae Myung is on a three-day visit to India, the first South Korean presidential state visit there in eight years. After discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lee stated, “We decided to upgrade the framework of economic cooperation to drive mutual growth.” This includes establishing a ministerial-level economic cooperation committee for the first time, with plans to boost collaboration in nuclear energy, clean energy, trade, and investment. Given the current disruptions in global energy supplies, especially due to tensions with Iran, India and South Korea will also work together to secure stable energy resources and raw materials such as naphtha.
Modi highlighted the significance of Lee’s visit, noting that both nations made key decisions to elevate two-way trade to $50 billion by 2030, up from around $27 billion today. “Today, we are laying the groundwork for the success of the coming decade,” Modi said, referencing the deep civilizational ties spanning centuries between the two countries.
Major investment in India’s steel industry
India’s Trade Minister Piyush Goyal discussed with South Korea’s Yeo Han-koo strategies to renew and enhance the trade agreement, exploring new opportunities in manufacturing, green energy, and digital commerce. Later on Monday, Lee will attend a joint business forum expected to host about 250 South Korean delegates, including executives from major companies like Samsung Electronics, Hyundai, and LG Group, according to Yonhap News Agency.
The two countries plan to sign roughly 20 private-sector memoranda of understanding related to shipbuilding, digital technology, and energy during the forum. In a separate announcement, Posco Holdings disclosed plans to partner with India’s JSW Steel to develop a large-scale steel plant in Odisha, with an investment of around $1.09 billion expected through 2031. This project, announced last week, involves building a 6-million-ton-per-year facility.
South Korea’s Maeng Hyun-chul, a researcher at Seoul National University’s Asia Center, noted last week that India’s persistent trade deficit with South Korea remains a concern, and political ties haven’t matched the scale of economic relations. Last year, South Korea recorded a trade surplus of $12.8 billion, with exports totaling $19.2 billion and imports at $6.4 billion, according to Korea International Trade Association data.
Following India, Lee plans to visit Vietnam, continuing his diplomatic engagements.
A young boy garnered widespread attention on social media after a Halloween costume project went awry when his mother used latex paint to transform him into Frieza, the notorious villain from Dragon Ball. Unfortunately, removing the paint proved to be much more challenging than expected.
Videos displaying the boy covered in white and purple latex paint rapidly circulated online. The footage revealed visible remnants of paint on his skin, illustrating her failed attempt to scrub it off, leaving him stuck in the character’s iconic fourth form.
According to TV Azteca, the incident took place in Argentina, where the child’s parents used regular latex household paint, mistakenly believing that it would come off easily with water.
Video: Boy becomes trapped in Frieza costume after mother applies latex paint
While social media users expressed concern and shared potential solutions in the comment sections, no reports indicate that the boy was able to free himself from the paint’s grip.
The viral video elicited a variety of reactions. One user on X (formerly Twitter) commented, “She’s a pretty cool mom, though. Some parents wouldn’t even go to these lengths for a school costume.”
Another person added, “It looks like they’re going to be stuck like that for a while. Peeling obviously isn’t an option. Soap and water aren’t going to do the trick. Thank goodness he doesn’t have a latex allergy. THINK! Do people even think anymore?”
Controversial streaming personality Sneako was recently assaulted during a live session in New York City on April 14, with clips of the incident circulating widely across social media platforms.
The far-right influencer was seen walking along a sidewalk in NYC when he was abruptly approached by another individual and thrown to the ground. The reasons behind the attack remain unclear.
Video: Streamer Sneako gets punched during a New York live stream
Sneako just got sucker punched while streaming in New York pic.twitter.com/qQUWmx1HdM
— FearBuck (@FearedBuck) April 14, 2026
In response, Sneako took to X (formerly Twitter) to address the incident, assuring his followers, “I’m okay, we’ve got it under control. Going live again in an hour for Professor Jiang X Dave Smith.”
Later, he added, “I got hit, you can see it in the video. I was hit a few times, then I got up and immediately the attacker pulled out a mask and ran away. It doesn’t make sense that it was a random person.”
Sneako is known for sparking controversy through his content, which shifts from philosophical musings to unfiltered, far-right opinions on politics and other issues. Despite bans on several platforms, he has managed to return to YouTube and Kick, where he primarily shares his content.
🚨#UPDATE: Sneako appears on Kick with a chipped tooth after being attacked on the streets of New York City. pic.twitter.com/ArepM9u8CO
— R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) April 14, 2026
