Following Pope Francis’s death, Cardinal Pietro Parolin is the front-runner to become the next pope, with 11/4 odds. His closest rival is Luis Antonio Tagle. Pope Francis was known for his moderate, progressive stance, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights while adhering to traditional Catholic teachings. He condemned the criminalization of LGBTQ+ individuals and urged acceptance. The question remains whether Parolin will continue this progressive approach or align with more conservative factions within the church. Penelope Kingsley 06/05/2025 6:30 pm
An Israeli airstrike hit Sanaa International Airport in Yemen, following a Houthi missile landing near Israel’s main airport. The IDF warned civilians to evacuate before the strike. Israel targeted Houthi sites in Hudaydah, claiming they were used for Iranian weapon transfers and economic resources. The Houthis blamed the US and Israel, but the US denied involvement. The Houthis threatened an aerial blockade on Israel in response. Israeli PM Netanyahu promised future retaliation against the Houthis. At least 21 people were injured in the attack. Ava Sinclair 06/05/2025 6:30 pm
In Vatican City, 133 cardinals will begin the conclave to elect a new pope following Pope Francis’s death on April 21. Pilgrims and journalists gather in St. Peter’s Square, while cardinals discuss church issues and desired papal qualities. The conclave starts with a special Mass, followed by cardinals voting under Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. Until a new pope is elected, signaled by white smoke, cardinals remain sequestered, adhering to centuries-old rituals and secrecy oaths. Noah Prescott 06/05/2025 6:30 pm
Russian air defense destroyed a swarm of Ukrainian drones targeting Moscow, leading to the temporary closure of all airports in the capital. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported 19 drones were intercepted without causing major damage or injuries. The attacks occurred ahead of the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory in World War II. President Putin declared a three-day ceasefire, while Ukraine’s President Zelenskiy proposed a 30-day ceasefire. A drone struck an apartment building, but no casualties were reported. Flights were halted for safety, affecting Moscow and regional airports. Noah Prescott 06/05/2025 3:00 pm
South Korea’s investigation into human rights violations in past international adoptions has stalled. Adoptees and advocates blame the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s politicization and misunderstanding. Since 1955, nearly 170,000 South Korean babies have been adopted abroad, mostly to the U.S. The investigation, initiated by 367 adoptees, revealed falsified adoption documents in 56 cases. However, the commission is divided over documentation issues, delaying 311 cases due to differing opinions and time constraints, with the investigation term ending in May. Penelope Kingsley 06/05/2025 3:00 pm
An Israeli plan to seize the Gaza Strip and expand military operations has raised concerns in the region. Palestinians, exhausted by 19 months of bombing, face further uncertainty. Israeli hostages’ families fear a ceasefire is slipping away. Israel’s Cabinet approved the plan, with details and timing unclear, possibly to pressure Hamas in ceasefire talks. The conflict began after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200 and abducting 251. Israel’s response has resulted in over 52,000 deaths in Gaza, according to Palestinian health officials. Ava Sinclair 06/05/2025 3:00 pm
The United Kingdom and India have signed a bilateral trade agreement to reduce tariffs on key exports like U.K. whisky and cars. India will gradually lower import taxes, making most goods “fully tariff-free within a decade.” U.K. whisky tariffs will drop from 150% to 75%, then to 40%, while automotive tariffs will decrease from over 100% to 10%. This deal occurs amid global trade tensions initiated by the U.S. Penelope Kingsley 06/05/2025 3:00 pm
The EU plans to end Russian gas imports by 2027, with legislation banning new contracts starting in 2025 for short-term and 2027 for long-term deals. The strategy also targets Russian oil and nuclear supplies. EU energy chief Dan Jørgensen emphasized the EU’s resolve to stop supporting Russia’s war efforts. The proposals may face resistance from countries like Hungary and Slovakia, but the EU is committed to reducing reliance on Russian energy despite challenges and potential opposition. Penelope Kingsley 06/05/2025 3:00 pm
The name chosen by a new pope offers insight into their intended direction. A name like Francis II would suggest continuity with Pope Francis’s legacy, while Pius would indicate a return to traditionalism. Historically, popes used their given names until the 6th century, when adopting a new name became common to signify continuity. John, Benedict, and Gregory have been popular choices. Since the mid-20th century, papal names have increasingly reflected the new pope’s goals for their papacy. Ava Sinclair 06/05/2025 11:30 am
Mr. Merz, a former corporate lawyer turned politician, is attempting a challenging political leap akin to his past skydiving experience. At 69, he was expected to become Germany’s chancellor after his party’s February election win. However, he fell six votes short in the first parliamentary vote. Despite lacking government executive experience, Merz is anticipated to succeed in a second vote. He faces significant national challenges, including a stagnant economy and strained U.S. relations, amid the rise of the nationalist Alternative for Germany party, recently classified as extremist. Noah Prescott 06/05/2025 11:30 am
