Pope Francis, 88, is recovering in Rome’s Gemelli hospital after being diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs, compounded by asthmatic bronchitis. Despite the serious condition, he is in good spirits, having slept well and eaten breakfast. The Vatican confirmed the need for cortisone antibiotic treatment due to a polymicrobial respiratory infection. Francis, who previously had part of his lung removed, remains grateful for prayers. His vicar urged the faithful to pray for his recovery. The pneumonia diagnosis followed a worsening of bronchitis symptoms. Ava Sinclair 19/02/2025 7:00 pm
President Emmanuel Macron of France convened a second emergency meeting with European allies to address concerns over President Trump’s shifting alliances, particularly his alignment with Russia. Trump’s remarks blaming Ukraine for the war and suggesting a U.S. retreat from European security roles have alarmed traditional allies. Macron aims to unify European leaders in response, hosting a meeting with Romania’s interim president and others via video. Former French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian criticized Trump’s actions, emphasizing the risk to European security. Ava Sinclair 19/02/2025 7:00 pm
At Panama City’s Decápolis Hotel, 299 undocumented migrants deported from the US are held in “temporary custody.” Some display signs pleading for help, while others indicate their lack of freedom. The migrants, from various countries, arrived after Panama agreed to act as a “bridge” for deportees. Only 171 have agreed to return home, leaving the rest facing an uncertain future. The Panamanian government plans to transfer them to a camp in Darién. The hotel, now under strict security, contrasts with its usual tourist-friendly atmosphere. Ava Sinclair 19/02/2025 7:00 pm
Marine experts have abandoned efforts to rescue over 150 false killer whales stranded on Tasmania’s remote beach due to persistent unfavorable ocean and weather conditions. Despite attempts to refloat some whales, conditions prevented success, leading to continuous restranding. Marine biologist Kris Carlyon stated that surviving whales would be euthanized to prevent prolonged suffering. The beach’s inaccessibility and challenging conditions hindered rescue efforts. False killer whales, large members of the dolphin family, are known for strong social bonds and group travel. Penelope Kingsley 19/02/2025 7:00 pm
In eastern Congo, Rwanda-backed rebels have taken control of key areas, causing panic in the capital, Kinshasa. President Tshisekedi’s office claims the army still controls the region, but locals and officials express doubt and fear of a coup. Embassies are using armored vehicles, and some officials are relocating families. The M23 group’s advance marks a significant escalation in the conflict, linked to historical tensions and resource control. Penelope Kingsley 19/02/2025 7:00 pm
Pope Francis, 88, is in Rome’s Gemelli hospital for a respiratory infection and double pneumonia. Despite his fragile health, he is alert, eating, and breathing independently. The Vatican reports he is not on a ventilator and is able to sit up and work. His public engagements are canceled through Sunday. The Vatican will provide further updates on his condition. Messages of support have poured in globally, with pilgrims expressing hope for his recovery. Francis has faced various health issues, including past lung surgery and recent abdominal hernia surgery. Ava Sinclair 19/02/2025 3:30 pm
Hamas announced plans to expedite the release of hostages and bodies, while families of those still held demanded Israeli PM Netanyahu address stalled negotiations. The conflict began with a Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023, leading to war and significant regional displacement. In 2024, Israel and Hezbollah reached a ceasefire after intense hostilities. The Gaza crisis remains severe, with Israel’s actions causing widespread destruction and humanitarian issues, despite international pressure for aid. Ava Sinclair 19/02/2025 3:30 pm
Marine experts in Tasmania have abandoned efforts to rescue over 150 stranded false killer whales due to persistent unfavorable ocean and weather conditions. Initially, 157 whales were found on a remote beach, but the number of survivors dropped from 136 to 90. Attempts to refloat the whales failed, and the survivors will be euthanized to prevent further suffering. The beach’s inaccessibility and challenging conditions hindered rescue efforts. False killer whales, despite their name, are large members of the dolphin family. Penelope Kingsley 19/02/2025 3:30 pm
In recent weeks, tens of thousands of Palestinians have fled Israeli military operations in the northern West Bank, marking the largest displacement since the 1967 Mideast war. Following a crackdown on West Bank militants, Israeli forces intensified operations in Jenin and nearby towns, evoking memories of the 1948 Nakba. Over 40,100 Palestinians have been displaced, with humanitarian officials warning of deteriorating conditions in refugee camps. The situation is described as unprecedented, with infrastructure destruction rendering camps increasingly uninhabitable. Ava Sinclair 19/02/2025 12:00 pm
Panama’s security minister reported that over half of the 299 migrants deported from the U.S. to Panama have accepted voluntary repatriation to their home countries, mainly in Asia or the Middle East. These deportations are part of the Trump administration’s efforts to curb unlawful migration. The migrants are currently housed in a Panama City hotel with U.S. financial support. The remaining migrants will be gradually repatriated with U.N. assistance, and may temporarily stay in a shelter near the Darien Gap. Ava Sinclair 19/02/2025 8:30 am
