Trump-Xi meeting in Beijing, Flavio Bolsonaro scandal, South Carolina overturned Alex Murdaugh's double-murder convictions, Ghana repatriated 300 from South Africa, Indonesian school sexual abuse

On May 14, President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping held a high-stakes meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. China is analyzing the ongoing 2026 US-Israel-Iran war to refine its military and strategic approach to Taiwan, learning that while the US possesses superior high-tech precision capabilities, it struggles to convert battlefield success into durable political outcomes. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged Beijing to play an active role in ending the Iran war, arguing that the conflict heavily threatens Asia's energy security and economic stability. The Trump administration has renewed an offer of $100 million in humanitarian aid to Cuba, contingent on "meaningful reforms" and cooperation, amid a worsening economic and energy crisis. Brazil Senator Flavio Bolsonaro solicited millions from jailed banker Daniel Vorcaro. The South Carolina Supreme Court unanimously overturned Alex Murdaugh's double-murder convictions and consecutive life sentences, ordering a completely new trial. The Ghanaian government has approved the immediate repatriation of 300 distressed citizens from South Africa following a severe surge in anti-immigrant protests and xenophobic violence. Indonesian authorities have permanently closed the Ndholo Kusumo Islamic boarding school in Central Java's Pati district and revoked its license following the arrest of head cleric Ashari for the alleged sexual abuse of 30 to 50 female students.  Tens of thousands of Argentines, estimated at over 600,000 in Buenos Aires alone, marched on May 12, 2026, protesting President Javier Milei’s 40% budget cuts to public universities.