News Briefing

12 May 2026

Concise coverage of today’s key developments.

Top stories at a glance

World & conflict

Russia–Ukraine war

New Russian drone strikes after brief May 9–11 ceasefire

A temporary ceasefire in Ukraine, in place from May 9–11, has ended, and Ukrainian officials report new Russian drone attacks on Kyiv and other regions.

The pause in fighting was tied to World War II Victory Day commemorations and a U.S.-led push for peace. With the ceasefire over, renewed strikes are reported as both sides brace for further escalation.

Source: internazionale.it (Reuters)

Climate & environment

Climate crisis

2026 flagged as potentially “extreme” year for global climate

Scientists and international agencies warn that 2026 could become one of the most extreme years ever recorded, with record ocean temperatures, early heatwaves, severe wildfires, and torrential rains already observed.

They highlight the likely return of El Niño and express concern that climate policy is slipping down political agendas as some governments and companies scale back climate commitments.

Source: Le Monde
PFAS “forever chemicals”

Seabird eggs show sharp drop in PFAS levels

A new study reports a sharp drop in levels of PFAS “forever chemicals” in certain seabird eggs, which scientists describe as evidence that environmental regulations and phase‑outs of some PFAS compounds are having a positive impact.

PFAS are highly persistent pollutants linked to cancers, thyroid disease, kidney problems, and immune effects, making the observed decline a notable development for wildlife and environmental health.

Source: The Guardian

U.S. law & society

U.S. Supreme Court & abortion pill

Court temporarily keeps abortion pill access nationwide

The U.S. Supreme Court has temporarily extended nationwide access to a widely used abortion pill while legal challenges continue, maintaining the status quo for now.

The case unfolds amid political pressure from anti‑abortion groups and public opinion polling that shows broad support for abortion rights.

Source: WTOP

Business & technology

Markets & AI in business software

monday.com rises on strong AI‑driven growth; Shopify pressured by AI costs

Work‑management platform monday.com reported stronger‑than‑expected Q1 revenue growth and earnings, helped by adoption of its AI features, lifting its stock even though shares remain sharply down year‑to‑date.

Shopify’s share price has fallen again after earnings, as investors worry about rising AI‑related costs and debate an upcoming shareholder proposal for a formal responsible‑AI policy, which the company’s board opposes.

Source: ts2.tech