Taiwan Vows It Won't Be Sacrificed, Ukraine Strikes Moscow, Singapore Surges

Why It Matters

The developments underscore rising geopolitical risk—from cross-strait and Russia–Ukraine tensions—that can disrupt markets and supply chains, while Singapore's export boom highlights AI demand as a key growth driver for regional trade and technology sectors.

Summary

Taiwan's president publicly rebuked the U.S. Beijing summit readout, warning the island ‘will not be sacrificed’ after Taiwan was omitted from the White House statement. Ukraine launched one of its largest drone strikes on Moscow in years, killing at least four and scattering debris near Sheremetyevo airport as Russia said it shot down more than 1,000 drones. Singapore's April non-oil exports surged 24.5% year-on-year, led by a 66.7% jump in electronics amid strong AI-driven demand, while regulators paused assessment of the proposed M1–Simba merger over alleged unauthorized radio-frequency use. Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong began a five-day visit to China as geopolitical and economic tensions shape regional diplomacy and markets.

Original Description

Headline news for May 18, 2026: Taiwan President Lai Ching-te responds to President Trump’s silence on Taiwan during the Beijing summit. Ukraine launches its largest drone strikes on Moscow in over a year in retaliation. Singapore’s non-oil domestic exports rose twenty four point five per cent year on year in April, exceeding forecasts.

Synopsis: A round up of global headlines to start your day by The Business Times. 

Written by: Nicole Teo ([e-mail] (mailto:[e-mail]) )

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Produced by: BT Podcasts, The Business Times, SPH Media

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