AnewZ Morning Brief – 18 May 2026

AnewZ Morning Brief – 18 May 2026
The joint session of the Assemblies is held within the framework of the 13th Session of the UN World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, Azerbaijan, 18 May 2026
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Start your day informed with the AnewZ Morning Brief. Here are the top stories for the 18th of May, covering the latest developments you need to know.

WUF13 day two in Baku focuses on housing and sustainable cities

The 13th Session of the United Nations World Urban Forum (WUF13) continued in Baku, Azerbaijan, on 18 May, focusing on global housing challenges and sustainable urban development. The day’s agenda includes the official opening press conference, the Urban Expo launch, and a ministerial dialogue on the Nairobi Declaration aimed at advancing Africa’s urban agenda.

Drone incidents in UAE and Saudi Arabia amid Iran tensions

A drone strike caused a fire at the Barakah nuclear power plant in the UAE, with officials confirming no injuries or radiation leaks. Saudi Arabia also reported intercepting three drones entering its airspace from Iraq, while investigations into the incidents are ongoing. U.S. President Donald Trump warned Iran to act quickly, saying time was running out as diplomatic efforts remain stalled. 

WHO declares Ebola outbreak in DRC and Uganda public health emergency
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern due to the risk of cross-border spread. The outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo strain, has reported more than 80 suspected deaths and hundreds of suspected cases, mainly in DRC’s Ituri province. Health officials warn that the situation may be more severe than current data shows. 
Ukraine drone attack kills at least four in Moscow and Belgorod regions

At least four people were killed in a large-scale Ukrainian drone attack on Russian territory, including the Moscow region, which authorities described as the biggest aerial assault in over a year. Russian officials said air defences intercepted dozens of drones, with 81 targeting the capital area alone. Residential buildings and infrastructure were damaged, including in Khimki and Mytishchi. 

Eurovision 2026: Bulgaria wins as South Caucasus miss final

The Eurovision Song Contest highlighted the unpredictable nature of the competition, with Bulgaria’s Dara securing a dominant win. Her performance of 'Bangaranga' stood out for its K-pop-inspired choreography, precision, and unified visual identity. The result marked Bulgaria’s first Eurovision victory and reflected a shift toward performances that combine strong concept, clarity, and global pop trends. In contrast, entries from the South Caucasus (Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia) failed to reach the final for the first time since 2018.

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