Trump threatens permanent freeze of WHO funding, and Rio launches pet delivery service for residents in isolation

*)Trump threatens permanent freeze of WHO funding

President Donald Trump has threatened to permanently stop funding to the WHO and reconsider US membership of the body.

Trump suspended US contributions to the WHO last month, accusing it of promoting China's "disinformation" about the coronavirus outbreak.

The UN-specialised agency is leading a global initiative to develop safe and effective vaccines, tests and drugs to prevent, diagnose and treat Covid-19.

*)Air strikes target militia escaping key base

Libyan air strikes are targeting militants loyal to warlord Khalifa Haftar after they fled a key airbase retaken by the government, Anadolu news agency reported.

The Libyan army on Monday retook the strategic Al Watiya airbase, which was under Haftar’s control since 2014.

A Libyan official said the government’s regaining control of the airbase was the end of Haftar's “coup plot”.

*)Limited data on US coronavirus vaccine shows early promise

Early data from Moderna’s coronavirus vaccine shows it produced protective antibodies in eight healthy volunteers.

The results from a safety trial in March offer an early glimmer of hope that the vaccine could provide protection against the virus.

Moderna expects to start a larger late-stage trial for the vaccine in July.

*)Lesotho premier steps down over wife's alleged murder

Lesotho's embattled Prime Minister Thomas Thabane announced his resignation over his first wife's alleged murder.

The announcement ends months of political uncertainty gripping the African kingdom since he was accused of being an accomplice in the murder.

His coalition was disbanded in parliament last week, and a new government is due to be installed on May 22.

And finally…

*)Rio delivers pet companions to Brazilians in isolation

An animal shelter in Rio de Janeiro has launched a pet delivery service for residents who seek a furry friend to pass the long days in isolation.

Rio's undersecretary for animal welfare Roberto de Paula said the demand for animal companions has been surging.

The shelter has delivered more than 50 pets since early April.