The UK government borrowed £151.9bn last year, exceeding expectations and increasing pressure on public finances. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is seeking a US trade deal to avoid tariffs impacting UK exports. The borrowing overshoot may lead to spending cuts or tax hikes to adhere to fiscal rules. Despite sluggish growth and higher interest rates, Reeves aims to avoid borrowing for day-to-day spending. The IMF predicts lower UK growth for 2025. US Vice-President JD Vance indicated a “good chance” for a trade deal. Noah Prescott 23/04/2025 12:00 pm
Gunmen killed at least 26 people and injured others in a suspected terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, targeting tourists. The attack, claimed by The Resistance Front, occurred in a remote area of the Baisaran Valley. Most victims were travelers, including a Nepali national and an Indian-origin person working in the Middle East. Survivors reported gunmen accusing them of supporting Indian PM Modi before shooting. Authorities are investigating the claim of responsibility by the militant group, which cited discontent over “outsiders” causing demographic changes. Noah Prescott 23/04/2025 8:30 am
The next Pope’s election is unpredictable, with the College of Cardinals, 80% appointed by Pope Francis, meeting in conclave. This diverse group, with fewer than half being European, may elect a Pope with a broad global perspective. Key candidates include Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, 70, who served as Vatican’s secretary of state and is considered a frontrunner. The outcome remains uncertain, with potential for an African, Asian, or experienced Vatican administrator to be chosen. Ava Sinclair 23/04/2025 8:30 am
A terror attack occurred in Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Donald Trump expressed full US support for India, condemning the attack and offering condolences. He communicated with PM Modi, emphasizing justice for the perpetrators. US Vice President JD Vance, visiting India, also extended condolences. Russia, UAE, UK, Israel, and other nations condemned the attack, with Russia pledging increased anti-terrorism cooperation with India. Noah Prescott 23/04/2025 5:00 am
Israeli strikes on Gaza killed at least 14 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and destroyed essential equipment for clearing rubble. The strikes also hit Lebanon, killing two. Israel’s 18-month offensive against Hamas has devastated Gaza, exacerbating shortages of heavy equipment needed for rescue and road clearing. A strike in Jabaliya destroyed nine bulldozers provided by Egypt and Qatar. The Israeli military claims it targets militants, blaming civilian deaths on Hamas. A separate strike in Khan Younis killed nine, including four children, while another in Jabaliya killed three children and their parents. Ava Sinclair 23/04/2025 1:30 am
At a general congregation in Rome, around 60 cardinals set Pope Francis’ funeral for April 26 at 10 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square. His body will be moved to St. Peter’s Basilica for public viewing. The cardinals also suspended beatification celebrations and will meet frequently to plan the funeral and upcoming conclave. Pope Francis will be buried at the Basilica of St. Mary Major. The funeral marks the start of the “Novendiales,” a nine-day preparation for the conclave. Noah Prescott 23/04/2025 1:30 am
Pope Francis, remembered as a beloved leader, faced criticism from various factions. Conservative US Catholics opposed his stance against Trump policies. Traditionalists disliked his focus on poverty over traditional worship. Allies of former Pope Benedict XVI preferred Benedict’s doctrine-focused style. African bishops opposed his approval of same-sex blessings. The “Dubia” cardinals questioned his stance on divorced Catholics receiving Communion. Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano accused him of covering up misconduct, leading to Vigano’s excommunication. Ava Sinclair 23/04/2025 1:30 am
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy expressed readiness for direct negotiations with Russia if a full ceasefire is agreed upon. This marks a shift, as Ukraine previously refused direct talks since Russia’s 2022 invasion. Russian President Putin showed willingness to engage, proposing a halt to the invasion along the current front line in exchange for U.S. recognition of Crimea and other territories. U.S. President Trump threatened to abandon negotiations if the ceasefire process is blocked and urged a deal this week. Ukrainian and U.S. officials will discuss a ceasefire plan in London. Ava Sinclair 22/04/2025 10:00 pm
In October 2023, amid the Gaza conflict, Pope Francis made nightly calls to the Holy Family Catholic church in Gaza City, offering support to its Christian community. George Antone, a congregant, was initially speechless when speaking to the Pope, who showed genuine concern for their well-being. Despite his responsibilities, Francis’s consistent calls over 18 months reassured the community they weren’t forgotten. His death was deeply felt, as he had become like a family member. Francis advocated for peace, urging a ceasefire and humanitarian aid for Gaza. Noah Prescott 22/04/2025 6:30 pm
Pope Francis’s funeral is scheduled for Saturday at 10:00 local time in front of St Peter’s Basilica. His body will lie in an open casket at the basilica from Wednesday, allowing public viewing. A procession from the Santa Marta residence to the basilica will occur Wednesday morning, led by Cardinal Kevin Farrell. The funeral service will be conducted by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, with global religious leaders participating. There will be no private viewing for cardinals, per Pope Francis’s wishes. Ava Sinclair 22/04/2025 3:00 pm
