The Vatican announced that Pope Francis has a polymicrobial infection from asthmatic bronchitis and bronchiectasis, detected via a chest CAT scan. He is undergoing complex antibiotic cortisone therapy. Despite the pneumonia, the Pope is in good spirits, eating, praying, and reading. Experts note that while pneumonia in an 88-year-old is serious, most patients recover with proper treatment. The Pope expressed gratitude for prayers. Noah Prescott 19/02/2025 1:30 am
Britain views itself as NATO’s European leader, with the second-largest defense budget and nuclear capabilities. Keir Starmer’s pledge of British peacekeeping troops for a Ukraine-Russia peace deal aligns with U.S. calls for Europe to enhance its role in Ukraine’s security. However, despite projecting confidence, the British Army faces internal challenges, highlighting Europe’s overall defense limitations rather than the U.K.’s strength. Ava Sinclair 19/02/2025 1:30 am
Israel has withdrawn forces from southern Lebanon, except for five positions, as part of a ceasefire with Hezbollah. Israeli troops remain to protect northern communities, but Lebanon demands a full withdrawal, viewing any Israeli presence as occupation. The ceasefire requires Israel’s withdrawal and Lebanon’s army to replace armed groups south of the Litani River. The conflict resulted in significant casualties and displacement on both sides. Israel cites security needs for maintaining positions, pending Lebanon’s full implementation of the ceasefire terms. Noah Prescott 18/02/2025 3:00 pm
The Vatican canceled papal audiences through the weekend as Pope Francis, 88, remains hospitalized with a complex respiratory infection. This affects the Vatican’s Holy Year events, a major Catholic celebration expected to draw 30 million pilgrims. Francis was admitted in “fair” condition after bronchitis worsened, and his recovery timeline is unclear. Despite his illness, he resumed some work, including contacting a Gaza City parish. The Vatican delegated others to cover his duties, including ordaining deacons and presiding over Masses. Francis has a history of respiratory issues. Penelope Kingsley 18/02/2025 3:00 pm
Israel will start indirect talks with Hamas on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire, demanding Gaza’s demilitarization. Initially delayed, the talks are mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. The ceasefire, effective since January 19, aims to end the Gaza war permanently. Despite challenges, the deal, involving hostage exchanges, remains on track. Israel insists on no terrorist presence in Gaza but may extend the ceasefire if talks are constructive. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties and displacement. Ava Sinclair 18/02/2025 3:00 pm
Hamas announced it will release the bodies of four Israeli hostages, including young Kfir and Ariel Bibas, on Thursday, and six living hostages on Saturday. An agreement was confirmed by the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office, with additional slain hostages expected next week. Israel is anticipated to release Palestinian prisoners in exchange. Talks involving Egyptian, Qatari, Israeli, and American officials facilitated the agreement. Hamas previously claimed the Bibas children died in an Israeli airstrike, but Israel hasn’t confirmed their deaths. The Bibas family has become symbolic of the October 7 attacks. Ava Sinclair 18/02/2025 3:00 pm
Pope Francis, 88, is seriously concerned about his health after being hospitalized with severe bronchitis, now a “polymicrobial infection.” He has canceled public appearances and is acting on doctors’ orders. Despite initial resistance, he was warned of the risk of death if he stayed in the Vatican. As his health declines, Francis is finalizing key initiatives and appointments, aiming to secure his progressive legacy amid ideological divisions. Before hospitalization, he extended Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re’s term to influence the papal succession process. Ava Sinclair 18/02/2025 11:30 am
North Korea criticized the U.S. and its allies for pursuing denuclearization, calling it “absurd,” and vowed to expand its nuclear forces under Kim Jong Un. This statement followed a meeting of U.S., South Korean, and Japanese diplomats who reaffirmed military cooperation and sanctions against North Korea. Pyongyang accused the U.S. of outdated plans and warned of decisive counteractions if threatened, committing to bolster its nuclear capabilities to deter perceived threats. The statement reflects ongoing tensions, though North Korean media has not directly criticized former U.S. President Trump. Penelope Kingsley 18/02/2025 11:30 am
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met with US Special Envoy Keith Kellogg in Brussels amid his diplomatic tour. Kellogg briefed NATO allies and will visit Ukraine. This follows US President Trump’s decision for direct US-Russia talks, excluding Ukraine and Europe. Talks in Saudi Arabia involve US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, marking significant US-Russia engagement since the 2022 invasion. Ukraine insists no peace deal can be made without its involvement. Meanwhile, a video shows an Australian captured by Russian forces. Noah Prescott 18/02/2025 11:30 am
At the 61st Munich Security Conference, European diplomats faced frustration and a somber mood, reflecting on their exclusion from talks to end Russia’s war in Ukraine. The conference, held at the Bayerischer Hof, saw dwindling supplies of camomile tea, symbolizing Europe’s waning influence. As Trump officials prepared to negotiate with Russia, Europeans struggled to secure meetings with the Americans, who prioritized domestic media engagements. The event highlighted Europe’s diminished role and the ongoing tension since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Ava Sinclair 18/02/2025 11:30 am
