Pope Francis remains in critical condition with double pneumonia, prompting the Vatican to hold a special rosary recitation in St. Peter’s Square. Despite his condition, the Vatican reported a slight improvement in his health, with no further asthmatic episodes and better lab results. Thousands gathered to pray, led by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, seeking divine support for the 88-year-old pontiff’s recovery. This marked the first special rosary for Francis, with attendees expressing deep concern and devotion. Noah Prescott 25/02/2025 4:30 am
Three American women, Kaoutar Naqqad, Imane Mallah, and Wafae El-Arar, were found dead at the Royal Kahal Beach Resort in Belize, possibly due to drug overdoses. The women, from Revere, Massachusetts, were discovered after resort staff used a master key to enter their room when they failed to respond. Police found no signs of forced entry or visible injuries, but froth on their mouths suggested overdoses. The investigation is ongoing. The U.S. State Department had previously issued a travel advisory for Belize due to crime. Ava Sinclair 25/02/2025 4:30 am
The US aid freeze has led to the closure of nearly 80% of emergency food kitchens in Sudan, affecting almost two million people amid the ongoing civil war. President Trump’s executive order halted USAID contributions, shutting over 1,100 communal kitchens. Despite a State Department exemption for emergency food aid, confusion persists about its implementation. The closures are a major setback in addressing Sudan’s hunger crisis, with famine conditions in several areas. The kitchens, initially supported by community donations, became reliant on international funding, primarily from USAID. Ava Sinclair 25/02/2025 4:30 am
US President Donald Trump stated that Russian leader Vladimir Putin would accept European peacekeepers in Ukraine as part of a potential peace deal. This marks a shift from Russia’s previous stance, as their ambassador to the UK recently rejected the idea of British forces in Ukraine. Trump also discussed a contentious US-Ukraine rare earth minerals deal, with Washington seeking a 50% revenue cut as payment for past military support. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy rejected the proposal, citing insufficient US aid and lack of security guarantees. European leaders were dismayed by Trump’s decision to hold preliminary talks with Russia without Ukrainian or European officials. Noah Prescott 25/02/2025 4:30 am
Pope Francis, 88, is in critical condition in a Rome hospital with pneumonia and mild kidney failure. He is receiving high-flow oxygen and various drugs, with doctors cautious about his prognosis due to his age and lung history. The Vatican reported he awoke from restful sleep and is responding to therapy. Cardinals will lead a rosary for him. If he dies, traditional rituals ensure a secretive and orderly transition, with the cardinal chamberlain becoming the Vatican’s administrator and the pope’s body prepared for viewing. Ava Sinclair 25/02/2025 1:00 am
Pope Francis, 88, remains in serious condition but has shown slight improvement during his 11th day at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. He continues oxygen therapy at a reduced flow and concentration. No further respiratory distress has occurred since a crisis on Saturday. His mild kidney insufficiency is stable. The pope resumed some work and expressed solidarity with Gaza’s parish priest. Global prayers continue after his hospitalization for bronchitis and a severe respiratory crisis. Catholics will gather in St. Peter’s Square for nightly rosary prayers led by Cardinal Pietro Parolin. Ava Sinclair 25/02/2025 1:00 am
Paul Barning, a seasoned game fisherman, fell overboard during a competition off Newcastle, Australia, after a shark entangled in fishing gear dragged him. Authorities believe the shark’s movement tightened the line, contributing to Barning’s fall. Despite extensive search efforts, Barning remains missing. The incident underscores the inherent risks of game fishing, as noted by the New South Wales Game Fishing Association. Barning was not wearing a life jacket at the time. Ava Sinclair 25/02/2025 1:00 am
Germany’s election dominates headlines, but underlying monetary policy issues may be more significant. Pepperstone expands its offerings with 79 new US share CFDs. Plaxico Burress’s Super Bowl ring from 2007 was auctioned. BoE’s Dhingra highlights weak UK demand and differing views on rate cuts. Andreas Steno Larsen and Mikkel Rosenvold discuss global macro trends. Noah Prescott 25/02/2025 1:00 am
Global media, including CNN and NBC, are preparing to cover Pope Francis’ critical condition in Rome. Logistics for a potential papal funeral, which attracts global leaders, are in place. The 88-year-old pope, hospitalized for pneumonia and kidney issues, has sparked speculation about possible resignation. Despite Vatican reassurances about his recovery, concerns persist. The film “Conclave” cast sent well wishes, while Cardinal Dolan noted the Catholic community’s concern. The Vatican emphasizes focusing on the pope’s health and recovery. Noah Prescott 24/02/2025 9:30 pm
Former French surgeon Joel Le Scouarnec admitted in court to committing “despicable acts” against 299 patients, mostly children, between 1989 and 2014. The trial, the largest child abuse case in French history, began in Vannes. Le Scouarnec, 74, acknowledged the lasting harm caused to his victims, some of whom were unaware of the abuse until police informed them, as they were under anesthesia during the assaults. His meticulous diaries helped identify victims. Already imprisoned since 2017 for abusing four children, Le Scouarnec expressed remorse but noted he couldn’t undo the past. Noah Prescott 24/02/2025 9:30 pm
