Bulgaria declares epidemic emergency until June 14
Bulgaria’s government on Wednesday declared an epidemic emergency until June 14, allowing the health minister to extend restrictions aimed at containing the coronavirus outbreak.
Over 100 Mexicans die of tainted alcohol as beer supply dries up: reports
More than 100 people in Mexico have died from drinking adulterated alcohol over the past two weeks, according to a tally by Mexican daily newspaper Reforma on Wednesday, as measures to halt the coronavirus’ spread have crimped beer production.
Congolese citizens bring civil action in Belgium against passport maker
Congolese citizens and international campaign groups have filed a civil action in Belgium against passport manufacturer Semlex, which is being investigated by prosecutors for possible money laundering and corruption, the petitioners said on Wednesday.
‘This virus may never go away,’ WHO says
The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 could become endemic like HIV, the World Health Organization said on Wednesday, warning against any attempt to predict how long it would keep circulating and calling for a “massive effort” to counter it.
Slovakia faces frustration over quarantine centres as it eases lockdown
Slovakia acted fast when it was hit by the coronavirus pandemic, quickly going into lockdown and keeping the number of cases lower than in most other European countries.
Pompeo urges Israeli caution in West Bank moves
U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday urged Israeli leaders to factor all parties into a proposed de facto annexation of the occupied West Bank so that it squares with Washington’s plan for Israeli-Palestinian peace.
Swiss attorney general is called for questioning in next stage of impeachment process
Swiss Attorney General Michael Lauber has been called in for questioning over how he handled an investigation into corruption surrounding the world soccer body FIFA, a step towards his possible impeachment.
Exclusive: FBI probes Mexican, European firms over Venezuela oil trading – sources
(This May 13 story corrects to add denial from Elemento’s lawyer provided to Reuters after May 13 story was published and specifics relating to the trading activity of some of the firms)
Myanmar’s army investigating soldiers over video of abuses
Myanmar’s army said on Wednesday it was investigating soldiers filmed beating and threatening to kill suspected insurgents in the western state of Rakhine, where dozens of people have been killed during an upsurge of fighting in recent weeks.
Spokesman for Mexican foreign minister has coronavirus
The chief spokesman for Mexican Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard has tested positive for the coronavirus and an official in the president’s office has died of the disease, bringing the pandemic closer to the inner circle of government.
