Trump says ‘be patient’ as US economy shrinks
WASHINGTON - US President Donald Trump has urged Americans to be patient in the face of an unexpected first-quarter economic contraction, claiming his tariffs will eventually lead to a boom in the US economy.

Israel strikes Syria to warn ‘extremists’
DAMASCUS - Israel struck Syria on Wednesday in what it called a “warning” against attacks on the Druze minority, in a military intervention that came as sectarian clashes spread near Damascus, killing 13 people.

Ministry pledges to address foreign tourists’ complaints
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has pledged to address concerns raised by foreign tourists, including rampant dual pricing, following a recent outpouring of complaints on social media.

Auditor denies links to design of collapsed building
Former auditor-general Phisit Leelavachiropas has denied any involvement in the design of the State Audit Office (SAO) building that collapsed during the recent earthquake that originated in Myanmar.

Thailand ‘committed to WTO principles’
Thailand remains committed to international trade principles under the World Trade Organization (WTO) and will work towards collaborative solutions amid the current uncertain climate, according to Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa.

Swedish police detain teen suspect after Uppsala shootings
A 16-year-old person was detained early on Wednesday (April 30) on suspicion of murdering three people in a hair salon in Uppsala, Swedish prosecutors said. Police said they did not believe there was a risk to the public, as major celebrations across the country were expected for the festive Walpurgis Night on Wednesday. - REUTERS

China and US resume Covid blame game
BEIJING - China has restated its case that Covid-19 may have originated in the United States after the administration of US President Donald Trump blamed a lab leak in China.

Oil prices set for biggest monthly drop since 2021
Oil prices are headed for their largest monthly decline since November 2021 on signs that the US-led trade war is hurting economic growth and energy demand at a time when the Opec+ alliance has been loosening supply curbs.

Italians flock to pick-a-pope online game
ROME - Betting on the next pope frowned upon in the home of the Vatican, but thousands of Italians have instead taken to playing “Fantapapa”, an online game inspired by the fantasy leagues familiar to sports fans.

Electricity bills reduced for next 4 months
Household power bills should come down after the Energy Regulatory Commission resolved on Wednesday to reduce electricity tariff from 4.15 baht to 3.98 baht per kilowatt hour (unit) for the next four months, from Thursday .