In brief
The WHO announced a postponement of its high‑level session of the 2026 Madrid Global Obesity Summit after a fatal collision between two high‑speed trains near Urda. Spanish officials, including Health Minister Monica Garcia and Public Health Director‑General Pedro Gullon, expressed condolences and called for continued aid, while the Royal Spanish Football Federation postponed Copa del Rey matches in sympathy.
The World Health Organization abruptly postponed a high‑level session of the 2026 Madrid Global Obesity Summit after a fatal collision between two high‑speed trains near Urda, Xinhua reported Sunday evening.
The crash, which occurred in the province of Toledo about 120 km south of Madrid, left dozens dead and many injured, according to the outlet.
Spanish Health Minister Monica Garcia called the accident a "major tragedy" and urged citizens to donate blood to help the wounded.
Public Health Director‑General Pedro Gullon announced the cancellation of Wednesday's event, saying that the Spanish government had suspended its official agenda for the day.
WHO Director‑General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, "Out of respect for the deceased, their families, and the government and people of Spain, we have decided to postpone today's event," and added that a new date would be announced in due course.
The Royal Spanish Football Federation also announced the postponement of all 24 Copa del Rey first‑round matches scheduled for Wednesday as a mark of respect for the victims.
