Putin marks a grand Victory Day parade as drones flew overhead, welcoming China’s Xi Jinping amid Ukraine’s rejection of Russia’s ceasefire.

Pope Leo has confirmed Vatican officials in current roles, with formal inauguration set for May 18 in St. Peter’s Square.

Pope Leo XIV has vowed to bring light to the world’s “dark nights” as he celebrates his first Mass as pontiff.

Six Sri Lankan military personnel have died after a helicopter crashed into the Maduru Oya reservoir during training exercise.

Russia plans to parade combat drones used in Ukraine for the first time during Red Square’s Victory Day celebrations.

Ukraine has detained two ex-soldiers accused of spying for Hungarian intelligence on military defences in the Transcarpathia region.

The Bank of Thailand has warned of prolonged uncertainty from US tariff policy, with impacts clearer later this year.

The UK is set to sanction up to 100 Russian oil tankers used to bypass existing sanctions, targeting Putin’s revenues.

The Trump administration plans to reduce tariffs during weekend talks with China, aiming to ease economic tensions.

China has urged Nigerian media to avoid terms implying Taiwan’s sovereignty, calling separatist efforts a serious threat to its territorial integrity 

Leaders from across the globe have welcomed the election of Pope Leo XIV, praising his historic appointment.

Bill Gates pledges to donate $200 billion by 2045, criticising Elon Musk over US aid cuts that threaten global health.

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has become the first American pope, taking the papal name Leo XIV.

Pakistan’s Chinese-made J-10 fighter jets have shot down two Indian aircraft, escalating tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

White smoke has been seen from the Sistine Chapel, indicating that a new leader of the Catholic Church has been elected 

Israeli PM Netanyahu admits uncertainty over three hostages’ fate, raising doubts about how many captives remain alive in Gaza.

Black smoke has emerged from the Vatican chimney again, signaling no agreement among cardinals on electing a new pope yet.

Ukraine is exploring a potential move from the dollar to the euro in response to shifting global alliances.

Iran’s Foreign Minister has urged India and Pakistan to exercise restraint amid rising tensions following Indian strikes on Pakistan.

Sources allege the UAE is discreetly facilitating negotiations between Israel and Syria to ease regional tensions.