Thailand Tightens Visa Exemptions

EUR Radio News — 2026-05-20 13:47

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1. Thailand Tightens Visa Exemptions
Thailand is set to tighten its visa exemption rules for tourists, reducing the duration of stays and limiting the number of eligible countries. This decision follows a cabinet review aimed at managing the influx of visitors to the popular holiday destination.

2. Drone Incidents Prompt Security Measures in Lithuania
A drone sighting in Lithuania led to the temporary closure of Vilnius International Airport and prompted local authorities to advise schoolchildren to take shelter. Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė is scheduled to convene the National Security Commission to address the recent surge in drone incursions.

3. Earthquake Strikes Eastern Turkey
A magnitude 5.6 earthquake hit the eastern Turkish province of Malatya, occurring at 9 a.m. local time. The Turkish civil protection agency reported that the quake’s epicenter was in the Battalgazi district, with tremors felt in surrounding areas.

4. US Plans to Reduce NATO Troop Commitment
The United States is preparing to announce significant cuts to its troop presence in Europe, which could affect its response in times of conflict. This move is part of a broader reassessment of the US military posture on the continent.

5. Potential General Strike at Samsung
Around 48,000 unionized employees at Samsung Electronics are threatening an 18-day general strike, which would mark the largest in the company’s history. The strike is set to begin on Thursday, as workers demand a historic bonus amid ongoing negotiations.

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6. France’s former president François Hollande has hinted at a potential political comeback, stating he is preparing for the 2027 presidential election. He emphasized the significance of this election, suggesting it will have far-reaching implications not only for France but also for Europe.

7. The European Union is advancing towards a controversial deal on migrant return hubs, despite concerns raised by NGOs. Critics warn that these hubs could devolve into lawless detention centers, potentially leading to human rights violations and increased chaos at Europe’s borders.

8. In Pakistan, the man convicted of murdering teen TikTok star Sana Yousaf has been sentenced to death. Her tragic case has drawn attention to the ongoing issue of violence against women in the country, prompting calls for greater protections and reforms.

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Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has expressed optimism regarding Europe’s jet fuel supply, stating that suppliers have confirmed no disruptions are expected until at least mid-July. He highlighted that increased fuel imports from West Africa, the U.S., and Norway are contributing to the improving situation, allowing airlines to prepare for a busy summer season.

In other news, leaked documents from Russia’s presidential administration reveal insights into a potential resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The documents outline how a conclusion to the war might be framed as a victory for President Vladimir Putin, despite the challenges on the ground. The front line remains largely unchanged, as the situation continues to evolve.

Turning to the weather. In Riga, 9 to 12 degrees with patchy rain possible a slightly cool ambiance awaits riga on today. In London, 10 to 18 degrees with patchy rain possible mild temperatures are expected in london. In Paris, 9 to 15 degrees with patchy rain possible a slightly cool ambiance awaits paris on today. In Brussels, 7 to 13 degrees with patchy rain possible a slightly cool ambiance awaits brussels on today. In Berlin, 9 to 19 degrees with patchy rain possible mild temperatures are expected in berlin. In Stockholm, 7 to 18 degrees with partly cloudy mild temperatures are expected in stockholm. In Madrid, 13 to 26 degrees with sunny madrid will experience a pleasantly warm today.

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