India and Pakistan are in a strategic standoff after an attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, killed 26 people. India blames Pakistan-linked group TRF and has downgraded ties, suspending the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) and closing borders. Pakistan retaliated, threatening to suspend bilateral agreements, including the Simla Agreement. The IWT, crucial for Pakistan’s water supply, has survived past conflicts. India demands Pakistan stop supporting cross-border terrorism, while Pakistan warns any water disruption is an “act of war.” Ava Sinclair 25/04/2025 6:00 am
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky canceled part of his South Africa visit after a Russian attack on Kyiv killed at least nine and injured over 80. Zelensky plans to return to Ukraine immediately after meeting South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. The visit marks a diplomatic effort to counter Russia’s influence in Africa, a shift from South Africa’s previous stance. Both Ukraine and South Africa now face strained relations with Washington, prompting Ukraine to seek new international partners, especially in Africa. South Africa claims its non-aligned stance could facilitate a peace deal with Russia. Noah Prescott 25/04/2025 2:30 am
Pope Francis’ tomb in the Basilica of St. Mary Major is crafted from Ligurian stone, honoring his ancestral roots. Located near the Altar of St. Francis, the simple tomb bears the inscription “Franciscus” and a replica of his pectoral cross. Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas revealed the Pope’s wish to use Ligurian stone, connecting to his grandparents’ homeland. In Cogorno, a plaque commemorates his great-grandfather, Vincenzo Sivori, who emigrated to Argentina. The Pope’s request surprised locals and family, including cousin Angela Sivori, who cherished it as a “wonderful gift.” Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 2:30 am
Pope Francis passed away peacefully at home after suffering a stroke, according to his doctor, Dr. Sergio Alfieri. Despite being unresponsive, he was breathing with oxygen and had clear lungs. Alfieri, who coordinated Francis’ treatment for double pneumonia, was alerted early Monday and found the pope in a coma. Moving him to the hospital was deemed too risky. Francis died two hours after falling ill. Noah Prescott 25/04/2025 2:30 am
A 15-year-old student attacked Notre-Dame-de-Toutes-Aides High School in Doulon, France, killing one student and injuring three others. Teachers subdued the attacker, who wore a helmet and balaclava. French President Macron praised the teachers’ intervention. The attacker left a grim email about society. France is considering increased school security, including metal detectors, to prevent future incidents. Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 2:30 am
A North Korean KN-23 ballistic missile killed at least eight in Kyiv, Ukraine, during a Russian aerial attack, according to a Ukrainian military source. The missile hit a residential area, leaving around 10 missing. Russia claims to target military sites, denying illegal arms transfers with North Korea. Ukraine alleges North Korea supplied Russia with artillery, troops, and missiles. By 2025, North Korea reportedly provided Russia with 148 KN-23 and KN-24 missiles. The attack has raised concerns in Europe and Asia about North Korea’s involvement in Ukraine. Penelope Kingsley 24/04/2025 11:00 pm
Judge Orrick blocked the government from withholding federal funds based on a presidential order, as he did eight years ago. The order faced legal challenges from 16 city and county governments, arguing it violated the Constitution’s spending clause. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit upheld Orrick’s 2017 ruling, setting a precedent. The Trump administration’s approach to terminating or withholding federal programs has led to legal vulnerabilities. Orrick noted the move could harm local governance and residents, causing budgetary uncertainty and constitutional rights deprivation. The ruling applies only to the 16 involved cities and counties. Penelope Kingsley 24/04/2025 11:00 pm
Sign up for the Slatest for daily insightful analysis. Recently, Trump urged Kyiv to surrender to Russia on the same day Russia launched a deadly attack on Ukrainian civilians. The next day, Trump asked Putin to stop the violence, posting on Truth Social. Despite his calls, Trump’s peace plan, seen by European sources, suggests a ceasefire with Russia retaining control over 20% of Ukraine, including key provinces. This plan implies Russia can continue its aggression without consequence. Ava Sinclair 24/04/2025 11:00 pm
As cardinals gather for the papal conclave, there’s a push for a more traditional successor to Pope Francis, who was seen as too improvisational by some Vatican leaders. Francis, known for his provocative views on capitalism, divorcees, and gay acceptance, often sparked controversy. Many cardinals seek a less disruptive, more moderate leader. Potential candidates include Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Cardinal Willem Jacobus Eijk, and Cardinal Robert Sarah. The focus is on finding a pope who can teach and embody Catholic faith compellingly, rather than strictly adhering to “liberal” or “conservative” labels. Ava Sinclair 24/04/2025 11:00 pm
Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after a militant attack in India-administered Kashmir killed 26 people. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi vowed to track and punish those responsible, blaming Pakistan. The attack was claimed by Kashmir Resistance, which India links to Pakistan-backed militants. Pakistan denied involvement, demanding proof. In response, India expelled diplomats, closed a border crossing, and suspended the Indus Waters Treaty. Pakistan retaliated by banning Indian aircraft from its airspace. Both nations have a history of conflict over the disputed Kashmir region. Noah Prescott 24/04/2025 11:00 pm
