World

The cardinals of the Catholic Church recently convened for their ninth meeting in a series of near-daily discussions at the Vatican, all in preparation for the upcoming election of a new pope. These closed-door “general congregations” are vital for addressing the challenges the new pontiff will encounter. After their discussions, they will retreat into the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday to deliberate on their choice. As the “Princes of the Church” navigated through gatherings of pilgrims and reporters en route to their…

In a remarkable demonstration of innovation in warfare, Ukraine has successfully shot down a Russian Su-30 fighter jet using a missile launched from a maritime drone, according to Ukraine's GUR military intelligence agency. This event marks a historic first, as it is reportedly the world's initial instance of a combat aircraft being downed by a drone operating over water. In a statement shared through social media, the agency revealed that the fighter jet was intercepted by a military intelligence unit known as Group 13…

Beijing is currently "evaluating" an offer from Washington regarding talks over the substantial 145% tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump. The Commerce Ministry of China has cautioned the United States against engaging in "extortion and coercion," highlighting the complexities of negotiation. Both Washington and Beijing seem entangled in a high-stakes game over tariffs, with neither side willing to appear submissive or be the first to initiate discussions amid a trade war that has unsettled global markets and…

This morning, a truck spilled an alarming 750 kg of sharp metal debris across one of Australia's busiest highways, leading to substantial disruptions and vehicle damage. As authorities reported, the city-bound lanes of the M1 Pacific Motorway were forced to close, resulting in significant traffic chaos. The incident unfolded in the early hours, according to New South Wales state police, leaving over 300 vehicles with damaged tyres. The M1, a vital route for both freight and commuters that stretches north of Sydney, remains…

Firefighters at the Vatican have successfully installed a chimney atop the Sistine Chapel, preparing for the conclave set to begin on May 7. During this pivotal gathering, cardinals will cast their votes in secret to elect a new pope. The results are communicated to the world through the burning of ballots in a specialized stove. Black smoke signals that no decision has been reached, while white smoke indicates the election of a new pope. Following the passing of Pope Francis—who led the Catholic Church for 12 years until…

On Sunday, voters in Romania will head to the polls for the second time in just six months to elect a new president. This repeat election follows a tumultuous political landscape and a significant decision made by Romania's constitutional court last December, which annulled the previous vote due to alleged campaign irregularities. The central figure in this heated debate is Călin Georgescu, a candidate who unexpectedly topped the first round of the November election. As a 62-year-old engineer and professor, Georgescu…

Two months into Israel's full blockade of aid to Gaza, humanitarian workers are witnessing harrowing scenes: children are starving, and people are resorting to fighting over dwindling water supplies. Aid operations are now described as being on the "verge of total collapse." The United Nations and the Red Cross have raised urgent alarms about the humanitarian crisis unfolding in this war-torn territory, calling for immediate global intervention. "The humanitarian response in Gaza is on the verge of total collapse," warned…

The United States and Ukraine have recently entered into a significant agreement aimed at boosting Ukraine's rare earth deposits. This move reflects the US's strategy to gradually reduce military assistance to the war-affected nation. Notably, this deal comes on the heels of several weeks of negotiations marked by tensions between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Understanding the Agreement Here’s what we know about this pivotal accord — which notably lacks any explicit security…

As the countdown begins for the upcoming Australian federal election, first-time voters are expressing their concerns about pressing issues like the cost of living, climate action, and student debt, alongside growing worries about the rising influence of far-right ideologies. The 2025 election presents a unique opportunity for younger generations, as millennials and Generation Z now outnumber baby boomers. This demographic shift has the potential to significantly reshape Australia’s political landscape. Approximately 18…

Ukraine's President, Volodymyr Zelensky, has warmly welcomed a minerals agreement with the United States, describing it as a "truly equal and fair partnership." This landmark deal marks a significant outcome from his recent meeting with former US President Donald Trump, held on the sidelines of Pope Francis's funeral. President Zelensky emphasized that this minerals deal paves the way for the modernization of various industries in Ukraine. "The agreement has changed significantly," he noted during his daily address. "Now…