Pope Francis was laid to rest on Saturday in Vatican City, as 250,000 mourners and over 50 world leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, gathered at St. Peter’s Square to pay tribute to the Catholic Church’s first Latin American pontiff.
A massive explosion at Iran’s Shahid Rajaee port killed four and injured over 500. Authorities are investigating the cause, with initial reports suggesting negligence in handling flammable materials.
Pope Francis, known for his inclusive approach toward gay and divorced Catholics, was honored for his belief that the Church should be open to everyone, as Italian Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re stated during his funeral homily.
Former President Trump pays tribute to Pope Francis, describing him as a “good man” despite past disagreements. Trump meets with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, addressing ongoing Ukraine-Russia issues amidst a tense encounter.
A United Nations report has disclosed the global expansion of scam operations run by transnational organized crime groups from East and Southeast Asia. These scams, which have defrauded victims out of billions, are adapting to intensified crackdowns by broadening their reach beyond the region.
The European Union has fined Apple 500 million euros for antitrust violations related to its App Store policies, while Meta faces a 200 million euro fine for ad-related practices on Facebook and Instagram, emphasizing the EU’s commitment to digital competition rules.
Pope Francis died at the age of 88, the Vatican announced. Known for his dedication to the Church, he made his final appearance on Easter Sunday at Saint Peter’s Square.
Chinese President Xi Jinping wrapped up a Southeast Asia tour in Cambodia, promoting China as a reliable economic partner amid U.S. tariff threats. The visit highlighted Beijing’s growing influence and commitment to regional stability as Southeast Asian countries face potential economic disruptions.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claims China is supplying weapons to Russia, escalating diplomatic tensions. He reports 155 Chinese nationals aiding Russia’s invasion and highlights China’s controversial neutrality stance in the conflict.
Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister and Trade Minister Gan Kim Yong announced the possibility of a recession in 2025 due to US tariffs, with the government adjusting its economic growth forecast to between zero and 2.0 percent.