2026-05-24 Sunday
2026-05-30
18:40:33
[Zelensky: Russian Airstrikes in Kyiv Cause Casualties and Damage to Civilian and Cultural Facilities] On March 24, local time, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced via social media that Russian forces launched attacks on Kyiv and several other towns in the early hours of the morning, causing extensive damage to civilian facilities in the capital. The attacks have resulted in two deaths and 69 injuries. Kyiv was the most frequently targeted by missiles, with residential buildings, schools, and a long-established food market being among the targets. This market was destroyed by fire during the attacks. Several landmark buildings were also damaged, including the Chernobyl Museum, which suffered severe damage, the National Art Museum, and a building that once housed the German news agency ARD. Zelensky revealed that he had previously spoken with the French president and the Norwegian prime minister and would continue to maintain contact with international allies throughout the day. He expressed his gratitude to the countries that condemned the attacks and insisted that Russia must bear corresponding responsibility for the military strikes. (CCTV)
18:32:17
[Russia Claims Strike on Ukraine Targeted Only Military Targets, Not Civilian Facilities] The Russian Ministry of Defense stated on May 24 that Russian forces used multiple types of missiles, including the Hazel, Iskander, Kinzhal, and Zircon, as well as attack drones, hitting targets including Ukrainian military-industrial complexes, military infrastructure, the Army General Staff headquarters, the Main Intelligence Directorate headquarters, and other Ukrainian military command posts. No civilian facilities were planned or targeted. On the same day, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy posted on social media that Ukrainian rescue and emergency response departments had been fully engaged in response efforts in the affected areas since early that morning. The Russian attack has injured at least 83 people and resulted in several deaths. (CCTV)
17:59:25
[Israeli Media: Trump Insists on Complete Dismantling of Iranian Nuclear Facilities, Will Not Agree to Any Final Agreement] 1. According to Israeli media reports, the United States is keeping Israel informed of the negotiations on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and the latest developments in consultations with Iran on unresolved issues. Trump reiterated to Netanyahu that he will not agree to any final agreement unless Iran's nuclear program is completely dismantled and all enriched uranium is removed from the country. 2. In a call with Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu emphasized that Israel reserves the right to take action against threats in the region (including Lebanon). Trump expressed support for this position, indicating a certain consensus between the two sides on regional security issues, but there is still significant tension on the terms of the agreement. 3. Israel's Channel 12 television, citing Israeli officials, reported that Israel believes Trump's special envoy, Witkov, is "willing to reach an agreement at almost any cost." According to the terms of the agreement disclosed by the media, Iran exchanges the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for economic benefits such as the lifting of the maritime blockade and the gradual easing of sanctions, while Iran's nuclear program and the disposal of enriched uranium are postponed to a later stage of discussion. 4. Israel considers the fact that Iran's ballistic missile program wasn't even included in the negotiation agenda a "terrible" arrangement. However, Channel 12 also emphasized that Trump and Netanyahu remain in close coordination and there has been no fundamental rift. 5. On the same day, Trump posted on social media that an agreement aimed at ending the war was "fundamentally agreed upon," including the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. An Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated that the two sides are in the final stages of finalizing the memorandum of understanding, but emphasized that the current focus is solely on ending the war and does not involve details of the nuclear issue.
17:00:47
[Saudi Crown Prince Participates in Trump's Regional Conference Call to Discuss Middle East Situation] 1. On Saturday, May 23, 2026, Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman participated in a regional conference call initiated by US President Donald Trump, discussing the latest developments in the Middle East with several regional leaders. 2. The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) confirmed that other leaders participating in the meeting included King Hamad of Bahrain, Emir Tamim of Qatar, President Mohammed bin Salman of the United Arab Emirates, King Abdullah II of Jordan, President Sisi of Egypt, President Erdogan of Turkey, and Pakistani Army Chief of Staff Munir. 3. This call comes at a time of key progress in US-Iran negotiations. During the call, all parties reviewed the regional situation, emphasized the importance of continued consultation and coordination to strengthen regional security and stability, and expressed appreciation for President Trump's engagement with regional leaders.
16:50:53
[Russia Confirms Use of Hazel Ballistic Missiles in Strikes Against Ukraine] The Russian Ministry of Defense announced today (May 24) that, in response to Ukraine's "terrorist attacks" on Russian civilian facilities, the Russian military launched a large-scale strike against Ukrainian military command structures, air bases, and defense industry enterprises. The Russian military used Hazel ballistic missiles, Iskander ballistic missiles, Kinzhal hypersonic missiles, Zircon missiles, as well as various air-launched, sea-launched, and land-based cruise missiles and attack drones. All intended targets were hit. (CCTV)
16:18:28
[Zelensky Says Russian Massive Attack Has Injured at Least 83] On March 24, local time, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced via social media that since the early hours of the morning, Ukrainian rescue and emergency response teams have been fully engaged in response efforts in the affected areas. The latest round of Russian military attacks has resulted in at least 83 injuries and several deaths. Zelenskyy stated that the scale of this Russian attack is unprecedented. Russia launched a total of 90 missiles of various types, including 36 ballistic missiles, and deployed 600 drones in coordination. Ukraine acknowledged that not all incoming ballistic missiles were successfully intercepted by its air defense systems. Kyiv was the most frequently targeted area and the core target of this large-scale Russian airstrike. According to Zelenskyy, Russian missiles accurately struck local water supply infrastructure, causing fires and damage to multiple markets, dozens of residential buildings, and several schools. Furthermore, Ukraine confirmed that Russian forces also launched Hazel missiles towards the Betserkovi region. Russia has not yet responded to these reports. (CCTV)
15:37:50
[Israeli Military Claims Airstrikes Destroy Multiple Hamas Weapon Depots in Gaza Strip] On May 24, local time, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued a statement saying that it had launched airstrikes and destroyed three Hamas weapons depots in the central Gaza Strip. The depots contained anti-tank missiles, firearms, rocket launchers, and other combat equipment. The statement added that the IDF had previously destroyed another Hamas weapons depot in an airstrike on May 20, which contained explosive devices, rocket launchers, grenades, and other ammunition. A secondary explosion occurred during the airstrike, indicating the presence of weapons at that depot. (CCTV)
15:26:27
[Israeli Airstrikes in Gaza Destroy Multiple Hamas Weapon Depots] 1. On May 24, local time, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued a statement saying that it had launched airstrikes on and destroyed three Hamas weapons depots in central Gaza. These depots contained anti-tank missiles, firearms, rocket launchers, and other combat equipment. 2. The statement also said that the IDF had previously destroyed another Hamas weapons depot in an airstrike on May 20, which contained explosive devices, rocket launchers, grenades, and other ammunition. A second explosion occurred during the airstrike, indicating that the depot contained a large quantity of weapons.
14:55:37
[Iranian Officials Confirm: Peace Agreement Will End Conflict, Strait of Hormuz Reopened] 1. US President Trump declared on social media that the relevant agreement between the US and Iran has been "basically finalized." Subsequently, three senior Iranian officials revealed to the media that Iran has agreed to sign a memorandum of understanding, the core of which includes a formal ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The three officials requested anonymity because they were not authorized to publicly discuss sensitive negotiation details. 2. As of now, the Iranian government has not officially responded to Trump's statement. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Qazem Gharibabadi posted early Sunday morning that Iran insists on seeking peace through strength, conducting diplomacy with dignity, and firmly defending its national territorial integrity, independence, and legitimate rights. 3. Iranian officials disclosed that the agreement tentatively allows ships from all countries to pass through the Strait of Hormuz free of charge—this waterway carries a large portion of the world's oil and gas trade. In exchange, the US will lift its maritime blockade against Iran. Furthermore, the agreement requires a comprehensive ceasefire, covering the conflict between Israel and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militants in Lebanon. 4. The thorny differences regarding the Iranian nuclear issue will be postponed for further discussion. The US has consistently demanded that Iran abandon its highly enriched uranium stockpile, and the two sides plan to hold dedicated negotiations on this matter within 30 to 60 days. The agreement also includes unfreezing approximately $25 billion in Iranian assets frozen overseas. 5. It is currently impossible to confirm whether the draft agreement approved by Iran is completely consistent with the version posted on Trump's social media. It has been revealed that Iran submitted the draft agreement to the White House for US review within hours before Trump's announcement. 6. Notably, in the days leading up to Saturday's news of peace talks, strong war rhetoric was released within Iran, and hardline supporters held demonstrations and protests.
14:54:11
[Tasnim News Agency: US-Iran Agreement Predicated on Lifting of Blockade, Strait Resumption to Proceed in Steps] 1. Tasnim News Agency stated that, according to the proposed US-Iran memorandum of understanding, any changes to navigation and passage through the Strait of Hormuz are contingent upon the US fulfilling other commitments. Without lifting the maritime blockade, the situation in the Strait will not change. 2. The memorandum requires the complete lifting of the maritime blockade against Iran within 30 days and the completion of relevant formalities. The number of ships navigable through the Strait will then return to pre-war levels within 30 days. However, Iran emphasizes that even with an agreement, the Strait of Hormuz will not be fully restored to its pre-war state, and Iran will continue to exercise its sovereignty over the Strait in various ways. Further details will be announced later. 3. Regarding asset unfreezing, the memorandum requires the initial unfreezing of at least some of Iran's frozen assets, with Iran having actual control over the funds. The implementation plan for unfreezing the remaining frozen assets must also be clarified during negotiations. Furthermore, Washington will exempt Iranian oil from sanctions in the memorandum. 4. Regarding the nuclear issue, Tasnim News Agency stated that Iran has not yet accepted any action regarding its nuclear program. The nuclear negotiations will have a separate 60-day negotiation period. 5. The memorandum also emphasizes the need to end the war on all fronts and explicitly demands that Israel end its operations in Lebanon.
14:10:58
[Russian Diplomat: Draft Recommendations for the US's 27-Point Plan to Resolve the Ukraine Crisis Prepared for Submission] It has been learned that on May 24th local time, Russian Foreign Ministry's Director-General of the Second Department for CIS Affairs, Polischuk, stated that Russia is prepared to submit its own recommendations regarding the US's 27-point plan for resolving the Ukraine crisis during the next round of meetings. He did not disclose the specific content of the recommendations. Polischuk stated that following two rounds of trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi and Geneva, Russian experts, based on the outcomes of the talks, have drafted recommendations regarding the US's 27-point plan. Since the beginning of this year, delegations from Russia, Ukraine, and the US have held three rounds of negotiations, the most recent being held in Geneva from February 17th to 18th. Russia previously stated that the trilateral negotiations had been suspended due to the situation in the Middle East. (CCTV)
13:32:34
[White House Official Responds to Pompeo: You Have No Knowledge or Right to Leak Secret Negotiation Details] 1. White House Communications Director Steven Cheung launched a scathing attack on Pompeo on social media on Sunday (May 24). This followed the former Secretary of State's public criticism of the peace agreement being pursued between President Trump and Iran, and his call for a tougher stance against Tehran. 2. Cheung bluntly retorted that Pompeo was completely unaware of what was happening and had no right to comment, even directly demanding that the former senior diplomat "shut his stupid mouth" and leave the work to the professionals. 3. Pompeo had previously posted on social media platform X, comparing the negotiating agreement to the Obama-era Iran nuclear deal, claiming it "effectively funds the Iranian Revolutionary Guard to develop weapons of mass destruction," "completely violates the 'America First' principle," and suggesting that the US forcibly open the Strait of Hormuz, cut off Iran's funding, and weaken its military capabilities. 4. To date, Trump has confirmed holding "productive" phone conferences with leaders of regional countries including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Pakistan, and Turkey regarding a US-Iran peace agreement, and announced that the agreement is "fundamentally agreed upon," with the Strait of Hormuz to be included in the reopening plan.
13:31:06
[Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister: Thanks to All Parties for Their Mediation Efforts, Optimistic About Lasting Peace] 1. The Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister stated that President Trump's important teleconference today with the leaders of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Qatar, Egypt, the UAE, and Jordan represents a crucial step towards the common goal of regional peace, stability, and an early diplomatic consensus. 2. He expressed appreciation for President Trump's leadership and commitment to dialogue diplomacy, while also thanking and valuing the constructive participation of the Iranian leadership. He noted that he has closely coordinated with all parties since February 28th and extended sincere gratitude to UN Secretary-General Guterres, fraternal regional partners, and relevant countries. 3. The Deputy Prime Minister also specifically mentioned the invaluable contributions of Vice President Vance, Secretary of State Rubio, and the entire US team—their continuous mediation efforts have driven substantial progress in the negotiations. 4. He stated that Pakistan will firmly support all sincere efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace, mutual respect, and regional stability. The results of this round of negotiations give reason for optimism: a positive and lasting glimmer of peace is in sight. Dialogue and diplomacy must overcome conflict and confrontation to achieve common prosperity and security in the region and beyond.
12:32:27
[US Media Reports Iran Agrees to Abandon Highly Enriched Uranium Stockpile] According to US media reports on the 23rd, Iran has agreed to abandon its highly enriched uranium stockpile as a key component of the upcoming agreement between the US and Iran. Two US officials told The New York Times that the agreement does not address exactly how Iran will abandon its enriched uranium stockpile, but rather leaves specific details to be resolved in the next phase of negotiations on Iran's nuclear program. The report states that the US has long hoped Iran would abandon its highly enriched uranium stockpile, so even though it is currently only a "commitment in principle," this is crucial to the agreement. The report also states that Iran initially refused to include any agreement regarding its highly enriched uranium stockpile in the "initial phase" of negotiations and requested that it be postponed to the "second phase." However, US negotiators have made it clear to Iran through intermediaries that if some consensus cannot be reached on the relevant issues in the initial phase, the US will withdraw from negotiations and resume military operations. US President Trump posted on social media on the 23rd that the US and Iran have essentially reached an agreement, pending final confirmation by the two sides and relevant countries. Trump did not mention the nuclear issue, including the enriched uranium stockpile, which he has previously emphasized, in his post. (Xinhua)
11:34:07
[Details of the US-Iran Agreement Revealed: 60-Day Ceasefire, Straits Reopening, Nuclear Negotiations to Begin Simultaneously] 1. A US official revealed that the upcoming agreement between the US and Iran includes a 60-day extension of the ceasefire. During this period, navigation will resume in the Strait of Hormuz, allowing Iran to sell oil normally, and both sides will simultaneously negotiate restrictions on Iran's nuclear program. 2. This agreement is expected to prevent escalation of hostilities and alleviate global oil supply pressure. However, whether it can lead to a long-term peace agreement and meet the US's demands on the nuclear issue remains uncertain. Trump and the mediators indicated that the agreement may be officially announced on Sunday, but it has not yet been finalized and still faces the risk of collapse. 3. Details of the draft agreement disclosed by the US official have been corroborated by other sources involved in the negotiations. While Iran has not confirmed the relevant clauses, it has stated that the agreement is nearing completion. Both sides will sign a 60-day memorandum of understanding, which can be extended upon mutual agreement. 4. Specific details include: the Strait of Hormuz will be open to the public free of charge for 60 days, and Iran must clear its mines to ensure free passage for ships; the US will lift its blockade of Iranian ports, waive some sanctions, and allow Iranian oil to be exported normally; during the 60-day negotiation period, the US will discuss the gradual lifting of sanctions and the unfreezing of Iranian overseas assets, with these measures only to be implemented after the final agreement is finalized and verified. 5. Furthermore, US troops deployed to the Middle East in recent months will not withdraw within 60 days, but will only withdraw after a formal agreement is reached. The memorandum also explicitly requires a simultaneous end to the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
11:32:34
[US Conducts Military Drills in Venezuela] The United States conducted military drills in Caracas, the capital of Venezuela, on the 23rd. This is the first time the US has conducted military drills in Venezuela since launching a large-scale military operation against Venezuela in January and forcibly removing Venezuelan President Maduro. On the same day, two US military aircraft flew over Caracas and landed in the area of the US Embassy in Venezuela. The US Southern Command said on social media that two US MV-22B Osprey transport aircraft participated in the exercise. The Southern Command also released pictures and videos of the landing of military aircraft and the activities of armed personnel in the area of the US Embassy in Venezuela. During the exercise, some Venezuelans held protests in downtown Caracas. The protesters chanted slogans such as "No drills!" and "Yankees, go back!", condemning the US interference in Venezuela. Everin Revoledo, a 57-year-old resident of Caracas, told the media that the US military drills in Venezuela "make us vigilant," and that "foreign (military aircraft) flying over the city...makes us uneasy." In response to the US military exercises, the Venezuelan government issued a statement on March 22, saying it had authorized the US to conduct an "evacuation drill" to address "potential medical situations or disasters." On January 3, the US launched a large-scale military attack on Venezuela, forcibly taking control of Maduro and his wife and bringing them to the United States. On March 5, the US and Venezuelan governments announced their agreement to restore diplomatic and consular relations. (Xinhua)
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