Pope Francis, 88, is hospitalized with a complex polymicrobial respiratory tract infection, requiring extended care. The Vatican reports a change in his drug therapy, with no discharge date set. Despite his condition, Francis maintains some routine activities, including daily communications with the Catholic Church in Gaza. His condition is stable, but his symptoms necessitate continued hospitalization. Penelope Kingsley 17/02/2025 6:00 pm
The South Korean government temporarily suspended new downloads of DeepSeek’s AI chatbot due to concerns over compliance with personal information laws. The app, which remains accessible via web browser, has been a global hit since its release, rivaling American AI products at a lower cost. DeepSeek’s success has raised concerns about security and data management outside China, despite its popularity and acclaim within the country. The company’s founder recently met with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, highlighting its rising prominence. Penelope Kingsley 17/02/2025 6:00 pm
European leaders gathered at the Elysee Palace in Paris for an emergency summit to address concerns over a potential US-Russia deal sidelining Kyiv and European allies. French President Macron spoke with US President Trump, while German Chancellor Scholz emphasized European unity. The UK, led by PM Keir Starmer, expressed willingness to contribute troops to a Ukraine peacekeeping mission. The EU aims to send a strong message of support for Ukraine, with EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen highlighting the broader implications for European security. Penelope Kingsley 17/02/2025 6:00 pm
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer emphasized the need for Europe to enhance its defense capabilities in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He expressed willingness to deploy UK troops to Ukraine to ensure security after a peace deal. European leaders are concerned about being excluded from US-Russia talks on ending the war. Sir Keir highlighted the importance of Europe’s collective defense response and mentioned potential UK troop deployment alongside European forces. Former British Army head Lord Dannatt warned of the costs and need for increased military funding. The UK plans to raise defense spending to 2.5% of GDP. Ava Sinclair 17/02/2025 2:30 pm
The US and Russia confirmed their top delegates will meet in Riyadh to discuss ending the Ukraine war. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will attend. The meeting aims to lay groundwork for peace talks and restore US-Russia relations. Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy will not participate but plans to visit Saudi Arabia for updates. He will also visit Turkey to discuss cooperation and regional issues with President Erdogan. Ava Sinclair 17/02/2025 2:30 pm
French President Emmanuel Macron convened EU and UK leaders at the Elysee Palace to address strained relations with the U.S. under President Trump. The Trump administration’s recent diplomatic actions, favoring Russia and sidelining European allies, have raised concerns. Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s speeches questioned Europe’s security and democratic principles. Trump’s decision to engage with Russia on the Ukraine conflict without European involvement marked a significant shift, prompting Germany’s foreign minister to call it an “existential moment” for Europe. Penelope Kingsley 17/02/2025 2:30 pm
A woman was killed and others wounded when Israeli forces fired on residents returning to Houla, Lebanon. This incident occurred before the ceasefire deadline for Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon, following a war with Hezbollah. The deadline, extended to February 18, faces uncertainty as Israel proposes retaining five border points, which Lebanon rejects. Hezbollah’s leader insists on full withdrawal without exceptions. Ava Sinclair 17/02/2025 11:00 am
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov announced that Saudi Arabia was chosen for Ukraine peace talks as it suits both Russia and the US. The idea was suggested by US President Trump to Russian President Putin. The talks in Riyadh will focus on US-Russia relations and potential negotiations on the Ukraine war. High-level Russian officials, including Kirill Dmitriev, will meet with the US delegation. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio views the talks as a test of Russia’s seriousness about ending the war. A Saudi official mentioned the kingdom’s mediation role, while Ukraine was not initially informed. Noah Prescott 17/02/2025 11:00 am
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with US support, vowed to “finish the job” against Iran, emphasizing Israel’s recent actions against Iran’s “terror axis.” US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, visiting Israel, stressed preventing a nuclear Iran and highlighted Iran’s influence in regional conflicts. Despite US intelligence warnings about potential Israeli strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, Netanyahu and Trump share a strategy on Gaza, with Trump proposing controversial plans for the region. Meanwhile, the US sent heavy bombs to Israel, lifting a previous hold on deliveries. Ava Sinclair 17/02/2025 11:00 am
A Ukrainian delegation is in Saudi Arabia to prepare for a potential visit by President Zelenskyy, amid speculation about U.S.-Russia talks in the kingdom. Ukrainian Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko emphasized the focus on strengthening economic ties and signing agreements with regional countries. She did not confirm any link between Zelenskyy’s visit and the U.S.-Russia talks. No details on Zelenskyy’s visit or meetings were provided. Adviser Andriy Yermak stated there are no plans for direct Ukrainian-Russian talks soon. Penelope Kingsley 17/02/2025 11:00 am
