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CNN Headlines: 17 Americans Return To U.S. After Leaving Hantavirus-Hit Cruise Ship; Trump: Latest Peace Proposal From Iran "Totally Unacceptable"; Plane Hits Person On Runway During Takeoff In Denver. Aired 5:30-6a ET

Aired May 11, 2026 - 05:30   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

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[05:30:45]

BRAD SMITH, CNN ANCHOR: It is half past the hour. Let's hit the refresh button on our top stories.

It is day two of evacuations from the cruise ship hit by the deadly hantavirus outbreak. Passengers are being checked out and then ferried in small boats before flying to their home countries. Reuters reports a French passenger showed symptoms of hantavirus while flying home. The chief of the World Health Organization stresses that the virus is not another COVID-19 and the risk to the public remains low.

President Trump is calling Iran's latest peace proposal "totally unacceptable." Iranian state media reported that the counterproposal included recognition of sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz and a demand for compensation for war damages, but it did not mention the country's nuclear program.

And this week President Trump is heading to China. Beijing confirming that the state visit will run Wednesday through Friday. A high-stakes meeting with President Xi Jinping also taking place. Trump's visit comes as the world's two largest economies try to hammer out their differences on a range of issues from trade and technology to national security rivalries.

I want to return briefly back to the hantavirus outbreak as 17 cruise ship passengers are on U.S. soil, arriving overnight and landing in Nebraska where they're going to be monitored further. Now, one has tested positive for the virus; another has mild symptoms.

CNN's Melissa Bell is live in the Canary Islands with the latest on this deadly outbreak. Melissa, what do we know and what have we been tracking and hearing?

MELISSA BELL, CNN SENIOR INTERNATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Well Brad, ever since these passengers left yesterday on its first day of evacuations as you mentioned -- on that flight that left from here in Tenerife yesterday evening to land in Nebraska -- those two worrying cases -- one confirmed to be hantavirus and the other passenger showing symptoms. But then also we saw on a flight leaving here yesterday to go to

Paris. Another -- one of the French passengers from the MV Hondius also testing positive to hantavirus. And that means that brings the total associated with this ship you can see behind me to 10, so far, cases to have been confirmed.

You can see perhaps just behind now it's currently being refueled. The plan is today to get the remaining passengers off the ship and that includes about 17 Dutch crew members who will be heading back to Amsterdam. But also the Australian and one New Zealander who will be the last to get off the ship, we understand, this afternoon when their flight arrives here in Tenerife to take them home.

After that the ship itself goes back to Holland, to Rotterdam, for disinfection.

But clearly, this is an operation that was extremely successful yesterday. The World Health Organization will continue to be so -- to be so today as those last evacuations happen. But for those tracked patients -- essential, of course -- that they are now in contained units, some Nebraska, some in Paris. All of them being tracked as a result of this considerable operation that's been put in place by the World Health Organization, Brad.

SMITH: All right. Melissa Bell in the Canary Islands. We'll continue to watch how that monitoring takes place from this point going forward. Thanks so much.

Now to the latest developments in the war with Iran. President Trump rejecting Iran's response to the latest peace proposal, calling it "totally unacceptable." He didn't provide details on the issues that he had with the response or what could come next.

But CNN's Paula Cocks (sic) has more from Abu Dhabi for us.

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PAULA HANCOCKS, CNN CORRESPONDENT: We're not hearing from President Trump saying, "I don't like it. It is totally unacceptable." Saying that Iran has been playing games with the U.S. and the rest of the world for 47 years.

Now what we know of this proposal at this point is from Iranian state media. It does appear to call for a recognition of sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz for Iran; something that the U.S. and Israel will not accept and something, quite frankly, many other countries around the world, including the Gulf Nations, are very unlikely to entertain as well.

It also calls for compensation for war damages. An end to fighting, including in Lebanon where over the weekend we have been seeing hostilities sparking once again. And the thing here is there was no mention, according to state media, of Iran's nuclear program. This is not acceptable to the United States. They want to make sure -- and we heard again from some of Trump administration officials on Sunday that is a red line. That Iran can never have a nuclear weapon.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

[05:35:20]

SMITH: That's Paula Hancocks in Abu Dhabi.

Well, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is once again calling for Sen. Mark Kelly to be investigation. This time it's over comments about the U.S. weapons stockpiles during the war with Iran. Hegseth claims the Arizona Democrat may have shared information from a classified Pentagon briefing after Kelly warned on CBS that U.S. missile inventories have been heavily depleted.

The move marks the second threat of investigation into Kelly who already filed suit against Hegseth over what he calls political retaliation for his call to U.S. service members to refuse illegal orders.

People on board a flight in Denver that hit someone on the runway -- those passengers said that it felt like an explosion. The airport says that person jumped over the perimeter fence on Friday just as the plane was taking off.

Here's a look at what happened from the passengers' perspective.

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UNIDENTIFIED MALE: The person who shot this video captured the moments after someone was struck by the flight he was on. He and 223 other passengers were forced to evacuate out of the side of the plane. Flight 4345 was departing out of Denver enroute to Los Angeles.

Kevin Cartes (PH), who filmed the video, told CNN the incident felt like an explosion. He said flames first shot into the air, which was followed by a deafening noise. Smoke started filling the cabin.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Holy (bleep). We almost died. That is (bleep) crazy.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Twelve people reported minor injuries and five were taken to local hospitals, according to Denver International Airport in a statement which added that there was a brief engine fire that was quickly extinguished by the Denver Fire Department.

The victim has not been identified, and the incident remains under investigation.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

SMITH: In California, authorities say that they did not recover Kristin Smart's remains during the latest search of a home connected to her disappearance. Now last week investigators -- they served a search warrant at the home of Paul Flores' mother; the man convicted of Smart's murder. The search was driven by new leads along with soil testing that showed signs consistent with human remains, but authorities say none were found. They ended the search on Saturday.

Investigators stressed that they're still committed to finding answers three decades after Kristin Smart went missing. Paul Flores was convicted of her murder in 2022.

Well, at some daycares across the country the rules might surprise you. A teacher can open a bag of chips but cannot peel a banana for a child. It all comes down to regulations, and some lawmakers want to change them.

CNN's Camila DeChalus explains what's behind the rules and why some lawmakers are pushing for change.

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CAMILA DECHALUS, CNN REPORTER: Well, in some states daycare workers say they face more hurdles serving fresh fruit, like bananas and orange, than handing out prepackaged snacks. But a bipartisan group of lawmakers are trying to change that.

Now, just this last week the House passed a bill that is backed by Democratic Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkmap Perez. And the purpose of this bill is really to ease some of the regulations that daycare workers face when they receive federal dollars. And they say that this legislation would create a separate category for low-risk foods like peeled fruits and vegetables, so childcare providers are not penalized for serving them.

And this is something that a lot of people may not realize is happening. That in certain states daycare facilities that receive federal money, peeling a banana or an orange -- that can legally be considered food preparation, which can trigger additional health and kitchen requirements for daycare centers, often requiring them to have, for example, an extra sink or upgrade their kitchen facilities, depending on the state regulations.

But now the real issue that daycare centers face is that this is something that happens that really impedes their day-to-day.

Now, I spoke to a number of daycare providers in Washington State and some across the country that say that they really are supporting this measure and say that the way that regulations currently stand it makes it harder for them and their daycare facilities to provide healthier food options for children.

Now, healthcare experts that I spoke to that focus on childcare, they say that the goal here really isn't to weaken food safety standards but to better distinguish between high-risk food preparation and simply low-risk items like fresh fruit. And some of the critics that I also spoke to argue that the issue right now is a little bit more complicated and that these existing regulations are really there to help protect children.

And the question really here is how much of this will have an impact on this legislation and whether more needs to be done to really address what daycare face -- facility workers are facing. [05:40:05]

Now, this measure was passed in the House and heads to the Senate, but at this point in time it's really unclear when a vote is going to be taken up on the Senate side to pass this measure.

Camila DeChalus, CNN, Washington.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

SMITH: Thank you, Camila.

A reality TV show involving the transportation secretary and his family is raising eyebrows this morning.

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Clip from the YouTube series "THE GREAT AMERICAN ROAD TRIP."

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SMITH: Sean Duffy, his wife, and nine kids starring in a five-part series called "THE GREAT AMERICAN ROAD TRIP." Duffy says that no taxpayer money was used to film this. The show's website lists companies like Boeing, Shell, Toyota, and United Airlines are project sponsors.

Critics say the timing and the sponsors raise ethical questions, especially as Americans face high gas prices and ongoing airline safety concerns.

The show is expected to stream on YouTube.

It's time for Buzz Express -- the stories that have people talking.

Britney Spears has a new message for her fans as she says that she's on a spiritual journey. She posted this picture on Instagram with a message saying she went to a pet store and saw this snake, adding that "they are symbolic of good health, higher consciousness, and pure luck." She says she's thankful for her friends and called her recent issues a blessing in disguise. Last week she pleaded guilty to a lesser charge in a DUI case.

And it was battle of the sequels at this weekend's box office. "The Devil Wears Prada 2" brought in $43 million during its second week in theaters. That's just a slight edge of "Mortal Kombat II," which raked in $40 million during its first week. "The Devil Wears Prada" sequel has now grossed more than $430 million worldwide in its first 12 days in its release.

Well next up on CNN HEADLINE EXPRESS, I'm sure you've wondered if travel insurance was worth it. We'll dive into what you're actually paying for straight ahead.

And these college graduates not just getting their degrees but a big payoff too. We'll explain later in the hour. Stay with us. You're watching CNN HEADLINE EXPRESS.

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[05:46:53]

SMITH: A couple from Mexico got to say goodbye to their son just one day before he passed away. They were being held by the Department of Homeland Security and were released over the weekend so they could be by his side.

Here's CNN's Zoe Sottile with their story.

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ZOE SOTTILE, CNN NEWS DESK REPORTER (voiceover): Video shows the moment parents released from an Arizona Department of Homeland Security facility reunited with their teen son, dying of cancer. The 18-year-old U.S. citizen fell ill in December while visiting Chicago and was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer.

Meanwhile, his parents, both Mexican nationals, had previously been deported from the U.S. after entering illegally. But desperate to visit their dying son, they reentered the U.S. in April, this time applying for temporary non-immigrant visas. However, the couple was denied, detained, and ultimately deported back to Mexico once again on Friday, according to DHS.

In a last-minute bid to reunite, their son flew to Durango, Mexico a week ago where he has discontinued treatment. In the days leading up to his parents' release he had this to say.

KEVIN GONZALEZ, TERMINALLY ILL: (Speaking foreign language).

TEXT: I feel emotional, happy, and right now a bit sleepy, but everything is fine. I want to thank the entire world for their help.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

SMITH: Let's go around the globe to see what else is making headlines, starting in eastern Europe.

Just hours remain in the brief ceasefire deal between Russia and Ukraine, yet over the weekend both sides accused each other of violations. Russia says it shot down dozens of Ukrainian drones. Ukraine says that three people were killed in Russian drone strikes near the front lines. Russian President Vladimir Putin says that he thinks his so-called special military operation in Ukraine is "moving towards a conclusion." However, he did not specify what he means by that.

Saturday marked Russia's scaled-down Victory Day parade commemorating the end of World War II.

Heading now to the United Kingdom where British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is addressing the public this morning after major losses for the Labour Party. It lost more than 450 seats in Parliament in last week's elections. It's just the latest blow to Starmer during a season of controversy reigniting concerns over his ability to effectively lead the party and the country.

Eurovision is hitting a high note and sending a few tense ones too. The 70th annual song contest is now underway in Vienna with 35 countries competing and semifinals starting tomorrow. But the celebration comes amid controversy as Eurovision's decision to allow Israel's participation in the contest sparked months of demonstrations across Europe.

[05:50:00]

Music to your ears. The notes filling the mountains' air over Slovenia's Lake Bled yesterday as the country hosted its annual Accordion Festival. Get this. More than 450 musicians played traditional Slovenian folk instruments and favorites on accordion with this beautiful backdrop. The festival celebrates Slovenia's rich heritage with concerts, and it is an accordion paradise. And, of course, there is lots of food and drink to go along with this festival. Excellent stuff there.

Still to come on CNN HEADLINE EXPRESS, runaway U-Haul. It leads police on a wild chase through a small Georgia town and in and out of traffic -- just striking visuals there that we're taking a look at -- up on sidewalks. How it all ended straight ahead.

Plus, a shocker for one homeowner who found a bear stuck inside a window well right outside of their basement. We've got more on this coming up.

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[05:55:18]

SMITH: Now to a question a lot of people are asking right now. As prices go up, is trip insurance actually worth it? And what does it really cover?

CNN's Maribel Aber walks us through what to watch before you book.

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MARIBEL ABER, CNN CORRESPONDENT, MONEY MATTERS: Hey. Maribel Aber here at the Nasdaq market site.

With airfares rising, skipping trip insurance can feel tempting. These policies are often offered at checkout to protect your money if your trip is canceled due to events beyond your control, like severe weather, mechanical issues, or even an airline shutting down. But the fine print matters.

Getting a ticket refund is one thing. What about hotels, rental cars, and other expenses? Here's how to check.

Take a moment to scan the exclusions on any policy, whether it's through an airline, booking app, or third party. Look for terms like trip cancellation versus trip interruption, pre-trip versus mid-trip changes, and financial default or insolvency, meaning a carrier suddenly goes out of business.

And different scenarios can mean very different coverage. Experts also say avoid paying with a debit card, which may offer limited protection. Most major credit cards, on the other hand, include some level of trip insurance.

Bottom line, travel insurance works best when the coverage actually fits your trip. Your money matters.

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SMITH: Skyrocketing gas prices aren't stopping people from hitting the road this Memorial Day weekend upcoming. Overnight, AAA announced that it estimates 45 million people will go at least 50 miles from home.

Now check out these prices here. For regular unleaded prices remain up since the last time that we checked in on them, this time last week -- though they're actually down a tiny bit since yesterday -- less than a penny. The price remains the highest in California where drivers are paying, get this, $6.16 a gallon.

Well, graduates at North Carolina State's Winston College of Textiles were expecting diplomas but they got something even bigger. Take a listen to this moment from their commencement speaker.

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ANIL KOCHHAR, INDIAN AMERICAN PHILANTHROPIST: My wife, Marilyn, and I are providing a graduation gift to cover all the final year education loans and current by the Wilson College graduates during the '25-'26 academic year.

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SMITH: Students call it a gamechanger, lifting a big financial burden as they step into their next chapter.

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UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: It's so kind. I can't even put into words what that gift means to everybody here.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: It was a big relief for me that good lump sum of my tuition is covered. I thought I was just graduating but now I get some money out of it too.

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SMITH: That donor says the gift honors his father's legacy and helps these graduates start their futures with less debt.

Let's take a look at some of the other stories making news across the country. We start in Louisiana. That's where loved ones and community members paid their respects for eight children killed in a horrific mass shooting. Family members held the funeral Saturday for the victims -- Seven siblings and a cousin, ranging in ages from three to 11. Authorities say the children were killed last month when a man opened fire on them with an assault-style weapon. Seven of the children his own.

In Florida, police say that officers shot a man who drove his truck through a crowd at a block party. Authorities say that nearby officers shot at the man before he sped off. They say he came back and crashed into several cars and a patrol car. Several people were hurt. The medics took the driver to the hospital. No word on his condition.

And this is like something out of a movie. I didn't have "Fast & Furious" U-Haul edition on my bingo card this year but here we are. Dashcam video shows Georgia deputies chasing a U-Haul, swerving in and out of traffic before it crashes. Here's another perspective. Investigators say that the U-Haul hit a truck and almost hit other cars before deputies a pit maneuver. After the deputies smashed the windshield to get the suspect out, they said they found drugs inside.

And imagine coming home and seeing this. A 250-pound bear somehow managed to make its way into a window well in Colorado and it took a little slumber. Just a little quick nap. The homeowner found the furry creature stuck outside her apartment basement -- their home's basement. Wildlife officials arrived and tranquilized the bear before releasing it back into the wild.

[06:00:00]

And all you Dr. Pepper fans take a look here. A museum in Waco, Texas just unveiled the world's largest Dr. Pepper bottle -- a whopping 22- foot tall -- 23-foot tall and is now on permanent display. The popular soft drink was first created in Waco, Texas in 1885.

And if you have an extra $60 million laying around, get this superyacht once owned by Greek shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis.

That does it for CNN HEADLINE EXPRESS. I'm Brad Smith. "CNN THIS MORNING WITH AUDIE CORNISH" starts right now.