News
What is being celebrated on 16 May 2026 in Ukraine and around the world
On Saturday, 16 May, Ukraine celebrates a day dedicated to scientists, those who enjoy an active lifestyle, and people in creative professions. In the folk calendar, the date is associated with omens regarding the harvest and the weather, whilst in the church tradition, it is a day to honour Saint Theodore the Sanctified
An investigation has been launched in Italy into the deaths of divers in the Maldives
Italian prosecutors have launched their own investigation following the deaths of five Italian nationals whilst diving in the Maldives. The search operation has been temporarily suspended due to strong winds, heavy rain and dangerous currents
Russia has announced that traffic across the Crimean Bridge will be suspended
On the night of 16 May, vehicle traffic across the Crimean Bridge was temporarily suspended. The Russian side urged people on the bridge and in the inspection area to remain calm and follow the instructions of the security services
Israel has announced the elimination of one of Hamas's leaders
The Israeli authorities have announced the killing of Izz ad-Din al-Haddad, a senior commander in Hamas’s military wing, during an airstrike on the Gaza Strip
Zelenskyy has warned of possible attacks from Belarusian territory
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Russia is attempting to drag Belarus into the war and may be preparing new aggressive actions from its territory
Polish companies have joined forces to help rebuild Ukraine
Three major Polish construction companies have agreed to collaborate on future projects to rebuild Ukraine. The companies in question are Budimex SA, Polimex Mostostal SA and AMW SINEVIA, which signed the relevant agreement at the Polish Ministry of State Assets
A chemical plant caught fire in the Stavropol Krai following a series of explosions
In Nevinnomyssk, in Russia’s Stavropol Krai, a fire broke out at the Nevinnomyssk Azot chemical plant following a night-time attack. The plant is believed to be involved in the production of components for the Russian defence industry.
The weather in Ukraine on 16 May 2026
On Saturday, 16 May, some regions will experience rain and thunderstorms. Meanwhile, warmer weather will persist in the south and east, with no significant rainfall
The 2026 Junior Eurovision Song Contest will be held in Malta
The 'Eurovision 2026' Junior Song Contest will take place on 24 October in Malta, specifically in Ta' Qali.
Russia is considering an operation on Kyiv from Belarus and strikes on ‘decision-making centres’ — Zelenskyy
The Kremlin is attempting to draw Belarus into military operations against Ukraine, whilst also preparing strikes against ‘decision-making centres’ in Kyiv.
The Cabinet of Ministers has lifted restrictions on female officials travelling abroad
The Cabinet of Ministers has lifted additional restrictions on border crossings for women working in state bodies, local government, state-owned enterprises and other specified organisations. According to Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, the decision applies to women regardless of their positions, with the exception of certain categories of the highest-ranking state officials.
Ukraine is a natural hotspot for the circulation of hantaviruses — Lyashko
Health Minister Viktor Lyashko has stated that Ukraine is a natural hotspot for the circulation of hantaviruses.