The Vatican announced that the conclave to elect a new pope will begin on May 7, following Pope Francis’ funeral. Only cardinals under 80 can vote, with 135 eligible, though Cardinal Antonio Cañizares Llovera will not attend due to health issues. Over 180 cardinals are in Rome, with discussions focusing on the church’s future. Cardinals Reinhard Marx, Luis Antonio Tagle, and Dominique Mamberti will assist Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo, in managing the church’s affairs. Daily congregations will continue at 9 a.m. Noah Prescott 28/04/2025 6:00 pm
At the International Court of Justice, Palestinian Ambassador Ammar Hijazi accused Israel of killing, displacing civilians, and targeting aid workers in Gaza, actions Israel denies. The hearings, requested by the U.N. General Assembly, focus on Israel’s legal responsibilities after blocking a U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees. Lawyer Paul Reichler emphasized Israel’s obligation under the Geneva Conventions to facilitate relief efforts. U.N. Undersecretary-General Elinor Hammarskjöld highlighted the need for security measures that don’t hinder humanitarian aid. The aid system in Gaza is nearing collapse due to Israel’s blockade. Noah Prescott 28/04/2025 2:30 pm
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8-10 to mark Victory Day, commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany. The U.S. is pushing for a resolution to the ongoing 3-year conflict. Ukraine, however, demands an immediate and longer truce, having previously agreed to a 30-day ceasefire proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha criticized Putin’s move as superficial, urging for an immediate and lasting ceasefire of at least 30 days. Penelope Kingsley 28/04/2025 2:30 pm
President Donald Trump’s first 100 days in office have been marked by significant disruption and a departure from tradition, drawing comparisons to Franklin D. Roosevelt’s transformative start. While Roosevelt expanded federal government involvement during the Great Depression, Trump has focused on dismantling it. Unlike Roosevelt, who achieved legislative consensus, Trump has relied on executive actions, making his changes more susceptible to reversal. Despite the differences, Trump’s impact is undeniable, having forced out federal employees and shut down agencies. Noah Prescott 28/04/2025 2:30 pm
North Korea confirmed sending troops to support Russia in Ukraine, under Kim Jong-un’s orders, calling them “heroes.” This follows Kremlin claims, disputed by Ukraine, of North Korean involvement in recapturing Russia’s Kursk region. Russia also acknowledged their presence. North Korea’s KCNA highlighted the strategic alliance with Russia. Despite Moscow’s claims of “liberation,” Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy stated Ukrainian forces remain active in Kursk and Belgorod. North Korea sent 14,000 troops, facing heavy casualties but adapting quickly, according to Ukrainian officials. Penelope Kingsley 28/04/2025 2:30 pm
Spain and Portugal experienced a major power blackout, disrupting public transport, causing traffic jams, and delaying flights. Authorities are investigating the cause, including a potential cyber attack. Emergency meetings were held, and a crisis committee was established in Spain. The outage briefly affected parts of France. Utility operators in both countries are working to restore power, coordinating with European energy producers. The blackout halted the Madrid Open tennis tournament and led to evacuations and traffic disruptions in Madrid. Ava Sinclair 28/04/2025 2:30 pm
A 30-year-old man, Kai-Ji Adam Lo, was charged with eight counts of second-degree murder after allegedly driving into a crowd at a Filipino heritage festival in Vancouver, killing 11 people. The incident, which injured about two dozen others, was not linked to terrorism, and Lo has a history of mental health issues. Vigils were held across the city, and Canadian Prime Minister visited the site. Victims ranged from ages 5 to 65. Lo has not yet entered a plea, and more charges may follow. Penelope Kingsley 28/04/2025 11:00 am
A US air strike on a detention center in Houthi-controlled Yemen killed at least 68 African migrants, with 47 injured. The attack followed US Central Command’s intensified air campaign against the Houthis, targeting over 800 sites since March. The strikes reportedly killed hundreds of Houthi fighters and leaders, but Houthi authorities claim many civilian casualties. Earlier, US strikes on the Ras Isa oil terminal killed 74, impacting Houthi operations. The US aims to restore regional navigation freedom, countering Houthi attacks on vessels, linked to their support for Palestinians in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Penelope Kingsley 28/04/2025 11:00 am
Roman Catholic faithful began visiting Pope Francis’ tomb in St. Mary Major Basilica, a day after his farewell by world leaders and a large crowd. A white rose and a reproduction of his pectoral cross adorned the tomb. Visitors, moved by his legacy, crossed themselves or took photos. Ushers managed the long lines, while cardinals later paid homage. The tomb opened on the second day of mourning, with a conclave to follow. Elias Caravalhal, unable to visit earlier, expressed gratitude for Francis’ impact. Noah Prescott 28/04/2025 11:00 am
Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian visited the injured after a massive explosion at Shahid Rajaei port, linked to a chemical used in missile propellant. The blast killed 40 and injured about 1,000. Despite military denials, videos showed severe damage, with schools and businesses closed due to dangerous smoke. Authorities are investigating the cause, while emergency workers continue efforts to control the fire. Satellite images showed ongoing smoke, and the governor declared three days of mourning. A private firm reported the port received missile fuel chemicals from China in March. Noah Prescott 28/04/2025 11:00 am
