AnewZ Morning Brief – 15 May 2026

AnewZ Morning Brief – 15 May 2026
A photo taken on 5 December, 2025, of Al Kharaitiyat vessel, which data shows it was sailing towards the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, 9 May, 2026
Reuters

Start your day informed with the AnewZ Morning Brief. Here are the top stories for the 15th of May, covering the latest developments you need to know.

Trump and Xi discuss Iran as China backs opening of Hormuz

U.S. President Donald Trump said he discussed Iran with Chinese President Xi Jinping, stating that both sides oppose Iran acquiring nuclear weapons and support keeping key maritime routes open. Separately, Trump voiced frustration, warning that his patience is running out with Iran, calling for progress toward a deal. Meanwhile, Israel and Lebanon continued talks in Washington described as “productive” by U.S. officials, despite ongoing strikes between Hezbollah and Israeli forces in southern Lebanon.

U.S. and Chinese presidents meet to stabilise fragile trade truce

U.S. and Chinese President are meeting in Beijing on Friday to conclude a two-day state visit focused on trade and bilateral relations. The summit comes as both sides seek to maintain a fragile trade truce reached in their previous talks, easing tensions over tariffs and critical supply chains. While Trump has expressed optimism about strengthening ties and described Xi in positive terms, the Chinese leader cautioned that mishandling sensitive issues such as Taiwan could risk destabilising relations. 

Russia launches largest aerial assault on Ukraine war

Russia has carried out its most extensive aerial assault since the start of the full-scale invasion, according to Ukrainian officials. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy said 1,567 drones were deployed since Wednesday, with at least 15 civilians reported killed. The Ukrainian air force stated that more than 670 drones and 56 missiles were fired overnight, with most intercepted by air defences. Kyiv was among the main targets, with damage reported at around 20 locations across the capital. 

Türkiye and Kazakhstan deepen strategic ties with new agreements

Türkiye and Kazakhstan signed 13 agreements covering investment, energy, defence, education, media, infrastructure, and finance during President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s visit to Astana. Both countries also reaffirmed cooperation within the Organisation of Turkic States, with growing focus on digital development, artificial intelligence (AI), and transport connectivity. The Middle Corridor route linking Asia and Europe via the Caspian region was highlighted as increasingly important for global supply chain diversification.

Eurovision 2026 semi-final in Vienna decides final 10 finalists

The second semi-final of the 70th Eurovision Song Contest 2026 takes place in Vienna, where 15 countries are competing for 10 remaining spots in Saturday’s grand final. The event is being held at the Wiener Stadthalle, with five acts set to be eliminated at the end of the night. Among the performers is Azerbaijan’s representative Jiva, who performs second in the running order. This year’s contest follows Austria’s win in 2025 with the song “Wasted Love,” which secured Vienna as the host city.

Tags