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Leo XIV prayed at the tomb of Pope Francis on Saturday, just two days after being elected new head of the Catholic Church and hours after vowing to humbly follow in his predecessor's footsteps.
Vatican News published a photo of the white-robed pope kneeling before Francis's simple marble tomb at the basilica in central Rome, where the faithful are still queueing to pay their respects.
The surprise visit to Santa Maria Maggiore, a papal basilica in Rome beloved of Francis, who died on April 21 at age 88, capped a busy day for Leo.
Earlier Saturday, Leo had praised Francis's "complete dedication to service" in a meeting at the Vatican with cardinals. He told them he intended to follow in the path of his predecessor during his pontificate.
The meeting with the College of Cardinals -- some 133 of whom elected him pontiff Thursday -- revealed some clues as to the priorities and style of the largely unknown Augustinian.
Leo explained his new choice of name reflected a commitment to social justice, while describing himself as St Peter's "unworthy Successor".
Born Robert Francis Prevost, the first US pope is now charged with leading the world's 1.4 billion Catholics.
&nbsp;
<hl2>- Visits Augustinian shrine -</hl2>
&nbsp;
He told cardinals a pontiff was "a humble servant of God and of his brothers and sisters, and nothing more than this".
He praised Francis's "complete dedication to service and to sober simplicity of life", according to a transcript of the gathering published by the Vatican.
"Let us take up this precious legacy and continue on the journey, inspired by the same hope that is born of faith," he told the group, after they welcomed him with a standing ovation upon his arrival.
Among the Church priorities championed by Francis, Leo said he intended to uphold "loving care for the least and the rejected" and his "courageous and trusting dialogue with the contemporary world in its various components and realities".
He also mentioned "the missionary conversion of the entire Christian community" and the efforts of Francis to open the Church to welcome more voices.
Saturday afternoon Leo paid a "private visit" to an important shrine for the Augustinian order, the Mother of Good Counsel Sanctuary in Genazzano, about 50 kilometres (31 miles) southeast of Rome, the Vatican said.
&nbsp;
<hl2>- Justice, labour - </hl2>
&nbsp;
Leo told cardinals he chose his papal name as a homage to Leo XIII, a 19th-century pontiff who had defended workers' rights.
His namesake, he said, had "addressed the social question in the context of the first great Industrial Revolution".
Today, the Church's social teaching is needed "in response to another Industrial Revolution and to developments in the field of artificial intelligence that pose new challenges for the defence of human dignity, justice and labour," Leo added.
Leo is the first Augustinian pope, a religious order with a strong focus on missionary outreach and community, which experts say encourages collaboration and discussion before decision-making.
In his first homily to cardinals on Friday, Leo urged the Church to restore the faith of millions around the world.
Lack of faith, he warned, often went hand-in-hand with "the loss of meaning in life, the neglect of mercy, appalling violations of human dignity, the crisis of the family and so many other wounds that afflict our society".
The former missionary in Peru, who was made cardinal by Francis in 2023, is not a globally recognised figure. He had nevertheless been on many Vatican watchers' lists of potential popes ahead of the conclave.
Over the coming days his actions and words will be closely scrutinised.
&nbsp;
<hl2>- 'Deep faith' -</hl2>
&nbsp;
On Sunday, Leo returns to the balcony of St Peter's Basilica where he was first introduced to the world to give the Regina Coeli prayer to assembled faithful in the square beneath him.
Leo plans to meet with foreign diplomats to the Vatican next week. The following Sunday, May 18, he will preside over his inauguration mass at St Peter's Square, which expected to draw world leaders and thousands of pilgrims.
Cardinals have described Leo as cast in the mold of Francis, with a commitment to the poor and disadvantaged, and a focus on those hailing from further-flung areas of the Church.
But they say his approach may be less direct than the sometimes impulsive Francis, a progressive who shook up the Church during his 12-year papacy.
In an interview with Italian daily La Stampa published Saturday, US Cardinal Timothy Dolan, a conservative archbishop of New York, called the new pope "a man of deep faith, rooted in prayer and capable of listening.
"This is what gives us hope; not a political programme or a communicative strategy but the concrete testimony of the Gospel," said Dolan.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World news: Among the Church priorities championed by Francis, Leo said he intended to uphold "loving care for the least and the rejected" and his "courageous and trusting dialogue with the contemporary world in its various components and realities".

Leo XIV prayed at the tomb of Pope Francis on Saturday, just two days after being elected new head of the Catholic Church and hours after vowing to humbly follow in his predecessor's footsteps. Vatican News published a photo of the white-robed pope kneeling before Francis's simple marble tomb at the basilica in central Rome, where the faithful are still queueing to pay their respects. The surprise visit to Santa Maria Maggiore, a papal basilica in Rome beloved of Francis, who died on April 21 at age 88, capped a busy day for Leo. Earlier Saturday, Leo had praised Francis's "complete dedication to service" in a meeting at the Vatican with cardinals. He told them he intended to follow in the path of his predecessor during his pontificate. The meeting with the College of Cardinals -- some 133 of whom elected him pontiff Thursday -- revealed some clues as to the priorities and style of the largely unknown Augustinian. Leo explained his new choice of name reflected a commitment to social justice, while describing himself as St Peter's "unworthy Successor". Born Robert Francis Prevost, the first US pope is now charged with leading the world's 1.4 billion Catholics. - Visits Augustinian shrine - He told cardinals a pontiff was "a humble servant of God and of his brothers and sisters, and nothing more than this". He praised Francis's "complete dedication to service and to sober simplicity of life", according to a transcript of the gathering published by the Vatican. "Let us take up this precious legacy and continue on the journey, inspired by the same hope that is born of faith," he told the group, after they welcomed him with a standing ovation upon his arrival. Among the Church priorities championed by Francis, Leo said he intended to uphold "loving care for the least and the rejected" and his "courageous and trusting dialogue with the contemporary world in its various components and realities". He also mentioned "the missionary conversion of the entire Christian community" and the efforts of Francis to open the Church to welcome more voices. Saturday afternoon Leo paid a "private visit" to an important shrine for the Augustinian order, the Mother of Good Counsel Sanctuary in Genazzano, about 50 kilometres (31 miles) southeast of Rome, the Vatican said. - Justice, labour - Leo told cardinals he chose his papal name as a homage to Leo XIII, a 19th-century pontiff who had defended workers' rights. His namesake, he said, had "addressed the social question in the context of the first great Industrial Revolution". Today, the Church's social teaching is needed "in response to another Industrial Revolution and to developments in the field of artificial intelligence that pose new challenges for the defence of human dignity, justice and labour," Leo added. Leo is the first Augustinian pope, a religious order with a strong focus on missionary outreach and community, which experts say encourages collaboration and discussion before decision-making. In his first homily to cardinals on Friday, Leo urged the Church to restore the faith of millions around the world. Lack of faith, he warned, often went hand-in-hand with "the loss of meaning in life, the neglect of mercy, appalling violations of human dignity, the crisis of the family and so many other wounds that afflict our society". The former missionary in Peru, who was made cardinal by Francis in 2023, is not a globally recognised figure. He had nevertheless been on many Vatican watchers' lists of potential popes ahead of the conclave. Over the coming days his actions and words will be closely scrutinised. - 'Deep faith' - On Sunday, Leo returns to the balcony of St Peter's Basilica where he was first introduced to the world to give the Regina Coeli prayer to assembled faithful in the square beneath him. Leo plans to meet with foreign diplomats to the Vatican next week. The following Sunday, May 18, he will preside over his inauguration mass at St Peter's Square, which expected to draw world leaders and thousands of pilgrims. Cardinals have described Leo as cast in the mold of Francis, with a commitment to the poor and disadvantaged, and a focus on those hailing from further-flung areas of the Church. But they say his approach may be less direct than the sometimes impulsive Francis, a progressive who shook up the Church during his 12-year papacy. In an interview with Italian daily La Stampa published Saturday, US Cardinal Timothy Dolan, a conservative archbishop of New York, called the new pope "a man of deep faith, rooted in prayer and capable of listening. "This is what gives us hope; not a political programme or a communicative strategy but the concrete testimony of the Gospel," said Dolan. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Leo XIV, new pope and 'humble servant of God', visits Francis's tomb

Hamas's armed wing, on Saturday (May 11), released a video showing two Israeli hostages alive in Gaza.
In the clip, one of the captives made a plea calling for an end to the ongoing 19-month war.
The hostages were identified by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum campaign group as Elkana Bohbot and Yosef Haim Ohana, who were held captive during Hamas' unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7.
The three-minute-long footage, released by Hamas's Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, showed one of the hostages, 36-year-old Bohbot, visibly weak and lying on the floor wrapped in a blanket, according to news agency AFP.
Whereas the second hostage, 24-year-old Ohana, speaks in Hebrew, urging the Israeli government to end the Gaza war and secure the release of all remaining captives.&nbsp;
In a statement, Bohbot's family said that "Elkana and Yosef are crying out to be saved. While all the people of Israel hear their calls, a handful of decision-makers refuse to listen," echoing criticism of the Israeli government for failing to bring back the hostages.
"How much more can we bear? How much more can they endure? The fact that they are still there is a disgrace," the family said.
This comes after Israel's security cabinet okayed a plan to expand its military operations in Gaza.
<h2>'Conquest of Gaza Strip'&nbsp;</h2>
The plan, according to an Israeli political source, includes the "conquest" of the Palestinian territory and promotion of Gazan emigration.
"The plan will include, among other things, the conquest of the Gaza Strip and the holding of the territories, moving the Gaza population south for their protection," said the source.
The official further added that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "continues to promote" US President Donald Trump's plan for the voluntary departure of Gazans to neighbouring countries such as Jordan or Egypt.
The decision was made overnight, hours after the military announced the call-up of tens of thousands of reservists to expand the offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
The security cabinet, including Netanyahu and several Israeli ministers, "unanimously approved" the plan aimed at defeating Hamas and securing the return of hostages held in Gaza.
The official source said that the plan included "powerful strikes against Hamas", without sharing further details on their nature.
Army chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, on Sunday (May 4), said that the military was calling up "tens of thousands" of reservists to expand its war in Gaza.
The cabinet also gave a green signal to the "possibility of humanitarian distribution" in the besieged Palestinian enclave, which has been under full Israeli blockade since March 2.
The cabinet "approved by a large majority the possibility of a humanitarian distribution, if necessary, to prevent Hamas from taking control of the supplies and to destroy its governance capabilities. During the cabinet discussion, it was mentioned that there is currently enough food in Gaza," said the official.

World news: The hostages were identified by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum campaign group as Elkana Bohbot and Yosef Haim Ohana, who were held captive during Hamas' unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7.

Hamas's armed wing, on Saturday (May 11), released a video showing two Israeli hostages alive in Gaza. In the clip, one of the captives made a plea calling for an end to the ongoing 19-month war. The hostages were identified by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum campaign group as Elkana Bohbot and Yosef Haim Ohana, who were held captive during Hamas' unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7. The three-minute-long footage, released by Hamas's Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, showed one of the hostages, 36-year-old Bohbot, visibly weak and lying on the floor wrapped in a blanket, according to news agency AFP. Whereas the second hostage, 24-year-old Ohana, speaks in Hebrew, urging the Israeli government to end the Gaza war and secure the release of all remaining captives. In a statement, Bohbot's family said that "Elkana and Yosef are crying out to be saved. While all the people of Israel hear their calls, a handful of decision-makers refuse to listen," echoing criticism of the Israeli government for failing to bring back the hostages. "How much more can we bear? How much more can they endure? The fact that they are still there is a disgrace," the family said. This comes after Israel's security cabinet okayed a plan to expand its military operations in Gaza. 'Conquest of Gaza Strip' The plan, according to an Israeli political source, includes the "conquest" of the Palestinian territory and promotion of Gazan emigration. "The plan will include, among other things, the conquest of the Gaza Strip and the holding of the territories, moving the Gaza population south for their protection," said the source. The official further added that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "continues to promote" US President Donald Trump's plan for the voluntary departure of Gazans to neighbouring countries such as Jordan or Egypt. The decision was made overnight, hours after the military announced the call-up of tens of thousands of reservists to expand the offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The security cabinet, including Netanyahu and several Israeli ministers, "unanimously approved" the plan aimed at defeating Hamas and securing the return of hostages held in Gaza. The official source said that the plan included "powerful strikes against Hamas", without sharing further details on their nature. Army chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, on Sunday (May 4), said that the military was calling up "tens of thousands" of reservists to expand its war in Gaza. The cabinet also gave a green signal to the "possibility of humanitarian distribution" in the besieged Palestinian enclave, which has been under full Israeli blockade since March 2. The cabinet "approved by a large majority the possibility of a humanitarian distribution, if necessary, to prevent Hamas from taking control of the supplies and to destroy its governance capabilities. During the cabinet discussion, it was mentioned that there is currently enough food in Gaza," said the official.

Hamas releases video of two Israeli hostages alive in Gaza

US President Donald Trump's administration, as per reports, is considering the suspension of habeas corpus &mdash; the centuries-old constitutional right that allows detainees to legally challenge their imprisonment &mdash; to fast-track his crackdown on illegal immigrants in the US.
Talking to reporters outside the White House, Stephen Miller, the White House deputy chief of staff, on Friday said that the administration was "actively looking at" suspending habeas corpus, citing what he called an "invasion" at the US-Mexico border.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-embarks-on-middle-east-tour-with-focus-on-business-regional-tensions-9057057">US President Trump embarks on Middle East tour with focus on business &amp; regional tensions</a>
"The Constitution is clear," Miller said, "the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus can be suspended in a time of invasion".
"So, I would say that's an option we're actively looking at," said Miller, adding, "Look, a lot of it depends on whether the courts do the right thing or not".
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<h2>What is habeas corpus?</h2>
The suspension of habeas corpus would be an extraordinary step. The right was taken from the English common law and is codified in Article I, Section 9 of the US Constitution. It protects individuals from arbitrary detention.
It has only been suspended a handful of times in US history, most notably multiple times by Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War, to detain suspected spies and Confederate sympathisers; by Congress during Reconstruction in parts of South Carolina under the Civil Rights Act of 1871. Furthermore, it was also briefly suspended in US territories during periods of unrest or war &mdash; two provinces of the Philippines in 1905, when it was a US territory and authorities were worried about the threat of an insurrection, and in Hawaii after the 1941 bombing of Pearl Harbour, but before it became a state in 1959.
As per the constitution, habeas corpus "shall not be suspended, unless when, in cases of rebellion or invasion, the public safety may require it".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-tone-deaf-disrespectful-behaviour-at-popes-funeral-ignites-online-hate-moron-embarrassed-us-on-world-stage-9006273">'Tone-deaf' Trump's disrespectful behaviour at Pope's funeral ignites online hate: 'Moron embarrassed us on world stage'</a>

Talking to reporters Stephen Miller, the White House deputy chief of staff, on Friday said that the administration was "actively looking at" suspending habeas corpus, citing what he called an "invasion" at the US-Mexico border. What is habeas corpus?

US President Donald Trump's administration, as per reports, is considering the suspension of habeas corpus — the centuries-old constitutional right that allows detainees to legally challenge their imprisonment — to fast-track his crackdown on illegal immigrants in the US. Talking to reporters outside the White House, Stephen Miller, the White House deputy chief of staff, on Friday said that the administration was "actively looking at" suspending habeas corpus, citing what he called an "invasion" at the US-Mexico border. Also read | US President Trump embarks on Middle East tour with focus on business & regional tensions "The Constitution is clear," Miller said, "the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus can be suspended in a time of invasion". "So, I would say that's an option we're actively looking at," said Miller, adding, "Look, a lot of it depends on whether the courts do the right thing or not". Also read | Trump hails 'total reset' in US-China trade relations as talks continue What is habeas corpus? The suspension of habeas corpus would be an extraordinary step. The right was taken from the English common law and is codified in Article I, Section 9 of the US Constitution. It protects individuals from arbitrary detention. It has only been suspended a handful of times in US history, most notably multiple times by Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War, to detain suspected spies and Confederate sympathisers; by Congress during Reconstruction in parts of South Carolina under the Civil Rights Act of 1871. Furthermore, it was also briefly suspended in US territories during periods of unrest or war — two provinces of the Philippines in 1905, when it was a US territory and authorities were worried about the threat of an insurrection, and in Hawaii after the 1941 bombing of Pearl Harbour, but before it became a state in 1959. As per the constitution, habeas corpus "shall not be suspended, unless when, in cases of rebellion or invasion, the public safety may require it". Also read | 'Tone-deaf' Trump's disrespectful behaviour at Pope's funeral ignites online hate: 'Moron embarrassed us on world stage'

What is habeas corpus? Trump admin looking to suspend writ to fast-track deportations of illegal migrants

The United Kingdom will now require foreign workers to have a degree to get a job. In a dramatic reset of Britain's post-Brexit immigration model, the Labour government, as per reports, will introduce a university degree requirement for foreign workers looking to work in the UK.
According to the Telegraph, this is a sharp reversal of the previous Conservative policy of allowing A-level equivalent workers under a points-based system.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/good-news-for-indians-new-rules-mandates-migrants-must-speak-fluent-english-to-remain-in-uk-9048213">Good news for Indians? New rules mandates migrants 'must speak fluent English' to remain in UK</a>
<h2>No degree, no job</h2>
The new proposal is expected to be unveiled on Monday (May 12) and would mark a major tightening of immigration rules. This is because net migration in the UK hit a record 906,000 in 2023.
Under the new rules, employers would still be allowed to recruit low-skilled workers &ndash; but only in critical sectors like IT, construction and engineering, as these are deemed to be suffering shortages by the Government. However, even in these cases, point-based visas will apply &mdash; but only on a temporary, time-limited basis.
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Employers in these sectors must also prove they are training domestic workers through apprenticeships and other schemes to plug the skills gaps.
This comes as previous reports suggested that the UK government will now force migrants to prove fluency in English; those who cannot risk being denied settlement in Britain altogether.&nbsp;
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Currently, in the UK, immigrants are required to only understand GCSE level basic English in everyday situations. However, under the upcoming Immigration White Paper, migrants seeking work, study, or permanent residence in the UK will have to demonstrate a much higher level of English, equivalent to A-level proficiency.
It requires people to express themselves "fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions," and to speak English "flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes".

Learn about the Labour government's plan to tighten immigration by mandating university degrees for foreign workers amid record-high net migration figures.

The United Kingdom will now require foreign workers to have a degree to get a job. In a dramatic reset of Britain's post-Brexit immigration model, the Labour government, as per reports, will introduce a university degree requirement for foreign workers looking to work in the UK. According to the Telegraph, this is a sharp reversal of the previous Conservative policy of allowing A-level equivalent workers under a points-based system. Also read | Good news for Indians? New rules mandates migrants 'must speak fluent English' to remain in UK No degree, no job The new proposal is expected to be unveiled on Monday (May 12) and would mark a major tightening of immigration rules. This is because net migration in the UK hit a record 906,000 in 2023. Under the new rules, employers would still be allowed to recruit low-skilled workers – but only in critical sectors like IT, construction and engineering, as these are deemed to be suffering shortages by the Government. However, even in these cases, point-based visas will apply — but only on a temporary, time-limited basis. Also read | 'Fear has no place, only strength respects strength': Defence Minister Rajnath Singh quotes APJ Abdul Kalam as he inaugurates BrahMos Facility in UP Employers in these sectors must also prove they are training domestic workers through apprenticeships and other schemes to plug the skills gaps. This comes as previous reports suggested that the UK government will now force migrants to prove fluency in English; those who cannot risk being denied settlement in Britain altogether. Also read | Starmer vows ‘further and faster’ change after by-election loss; Farage claims Reform now ‘real’ opposition Currently, in the UK, immigrants are required to only understand GCSE level basic English in everyday situations. However, under the upcoming Immigration White Paper, migrants seeking work, study, or permanent residence in the UK will have to demonstrate a much higher level of English, equivalent to A-level proficiency. It requires people to express themselves "fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions," and to speak English "flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes".

You'll now need a degree to work in the UK: Nation to bar low-skilled foreign workers without graduate degrees

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> will visit Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates on Monday (May 12), beginning his first significant foreign trip of his second term with a packed agenda of business agreements, even though longstanding regional rivalries are likely to predominate.
While Israel&rsquo;s war in Gaza and Iran&rsquo;s nuclear ambitions remain front and center, the White House has framed the visit as a &ldquo;historic return&rdquo; to a region Trump first visited as president in 2017&mdash;when he famously posed over a glowing orb with Saudi and Egyptian leaders in Riyadh.
By choosing again to begin his overseas travels within the oil-producing Gulf&mdash;instead of with long-standing Western partners&mdash;Trump is demonstrating the rising geopolitical influence of the region, and also emphasising his long-established personal and commercial connections there.
"It's hard for me to escape the idea that President Trump is going to the Gulf because this is his happy place," said Jon Alterman, director of the Middle East program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
"His hosts will be generous and hospitable. They'll be keen to make deals. They'll flatter him and not criticize him, and they'll treat his family members as past and future business partners."
<h2>A historic return</h2>
Riyadh, Doha, and Abu Dhabi are making preparations for a lavish reception for Trump, who stopped by Rome briefly to attend Pope Francis's funeral. The Gulf states are likely to present a combination of ceremonial pomp and wide-reaching commercial deals in defense, aviation, energy, and artificial intelligence.
"The president looks forward to embarking on his historic return to the Middle East" to promote a vision where "extremism is defeated in place of commerce and cultural exchanges," spokeswoman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/karoline-leavitt" rel="dofollow">Karoline Leavitt</a> said Friday.
Nevertheless, serious regional crises will be impossible to avoid. Trump will be called upon to speak to the continuing conflict in Gaza, the ascendance of the Iran-backed Huthi rebels in Yemen, and instability in Syria after the collapse of the Assad regime.
Trump will meet with the leaders of the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries: Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman, during his visit. Israel, Washington's most important ally in the region, is strangely absent from the list, fueling speculation regarding the strained relationship between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/benjamin-netanyahu" rel="dofollow">Benjamin Netanyahu</a>.
"Trump is coming to the Gulf first because this region has become a geopolitical and financial center of gravity," Anna Jacobs, non-resident fellow at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, was quoted saying to AFP.
Israel has also reportedly given Trump's visit a deadline to consider a possible ceasefire with Hamas, warning it of a major assault in Gaza unless an agreement is reached. Nonetheless, Trump has adopted a hands-off approach, while American officials indicate they're cooperating with Israel on a new Gaza aid corridor.
<h2>Iran and 'Monetizing MAGA'</h2>
Iran will also be a critical focus. On Sunday, the US and Iran are set to resume indirect nuclear talks in Oman. Tehran has expressed outrage after Trump floated the idea of renaming the Persian Gulf to the &ldquo;Gulf of Arabia,&rdquo; a move that would likely escalate tensions further.
In the meantime, while Trump's camp maintains that his businesses are not on the agenda, his family's expanding commercial presence in the region indicates otherwise. The Trump Organisation recently closed a luxury real estate transaction in Qatar and unveiled a $1 billion skyscraper development in Dubai that takes cryptocurrency payments.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/eric-trump">Eric Trump</a> has been touting crypto businesses in the UAE, and Donald Trump Jr. will be speaking at a Doha event called "Monetizing MAGA."
But the White House denied Trump was cashing in.&nbsp;"It's frankly ridiculous that anyone... would even suggest that President Trump is doing anything for his own benefit," Leavitt said.

World: 8 years ago Trump also chose Riyadh for his first overseas trip as president -- when he memorably posed over a glowing orb with leaders of Egypt and Saudi Arabia

US President Donald Trump will visit Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates on Monday (May 12), beginning his first significant foreign trip of his second term with a packed agenda of business agreements, even though longstanding regional rivalries are likely to predominate. While Israel’s war in Gaza and Iran’s nuclear ambitions remain front and center, the White House has framed the visit as a “historic return” to a region Trump first visited as president in 2017—when he famously posed over a glowing orb with Saudi and Egyptian leaders in Riyadh. By choosing again to begin his overseas travels within the oil-producing Gulf—instead of with long-standing Western partners—Trump is demonstrating the rising geopolitical influence of the region, and also emphasising his long-established personal and commercial connections there. "It's hard for me to escape the idea that President Trump is going to the Gulf because this is his happy place," said Jon Alterman, director of the Middle East program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. "His hosts will be generous and hospitable. They'll be keen to make deals. They'll flatter him and not criticize him, and they'll treat his family members as past and future business partners." A historic return Riyadh, Doha, and Abu Dhabi are making preparations for a lavish reception for Trump, who stopped by Rome briefly to attend Pope Francis's funeral. The Gulf states are likely to present a combination of ceremonial pomp and wide-reaching commercial deals in defense, aviation, energy, and artificial intelligence. "The president looks forward to embarking on his historic return to the Middle East" to promote a vision where "extremism is defeated in place of commerce and cultural exchanges," spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said Friday. Nevertheless, serious regional crises will be impossible to avoid. Trump will be called upon to speak to the continuing conflict in Gaza, the ascendance of the Iran-backed Huthi rebels in Yemen, and instability in Syria after the collapse of the Assad regime. Trump will meet with the leaders of the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries: Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman, during his visit. Israel, Washington's most important ally in the region, is strangely absent from the list, fueling speculation regarding the strained relationship between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "Trump is coming to the Gulf first because this region has become a geopolitical and financial center of gravity," Anna Jacobs, non-resident fellow at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, was quoted saying to AFP. Israel has also reportedly given Trump's visit a deadline to consider a possible ceasefire with Hamas, warning it of a major assault in Gaza unless an agreement is reached. Nonetheless, Trump has adopted a hands-off approach, while American officials indicate they're cooperating with Israel on a new Gaza aid corridor. Iran and 'Monetizing MAGA' Iran will also be a critical focus. On Sunday, the US and Iran are set to resume indirect nuclear talks in Oman. Tehran has expressed outrage after Trump floated the idea of renaming the Persian Gulf to the “Gulf of Arabia,” a move that would likely escalate tensions further. In the meantime, while Trump's camp maintains that his businesses are not on the agenda, his family's expanding commercial presence in the region indicates otherwise. The Trump Organisation recently closed a luxury real estate transaction in Qatar and unveiled a $1 billion skyscraper development in Dubai that takes cryptocurrency payments. Eric Trump has been touting crypto businesses in the UAE, and Donald Trump Jr. will be speaking at a Doha event called "Monetizing MAGA." But the White House denied Trump was cashing in. "It's frankly ridiculous that anyone... would even suggest that President Trump is doing anything for his own benefit," Leavitt said.

US President Trump embarks on Middle East tour with focus on business & regional tensions

In a significant political development, Bangladesh's interim government on Saturday banned the Awami League, the party long led by former Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sheikh-hasina">Sheikh Hasina</a>. This move follows a period of growing tension and political unrest in the country, as the interim administration&mdash;backed by prominent civil society members and former Nobel laureate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/muhammad-yunus" rel="dofollow">Muhammad Yunus</a>&mdash;seeks to overhaul the nation's governance system.
&ldquo;The official gazette notification will be issued in this regard on the next working day,&rdquo; Yunus&rsquo;s office said, describing it as a &ldquo;statement of the Council of Advisers&rdquo; or the Cabinet.
The statement said the Council decided that the ban would remain effective until the completion of the &ldquo;trial of the Awami League and its leaders in Bangladesh&rsquo;s International Crimes Tribunal in the interest of protecting the country&rsquo;s security and sovereignty&rdquo;.
The Advisory Council also resolved to finalise and publish the July Declaration within the next 30 working days.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-putin-proposes-fresh-talks-with-ukraine-in-istanbul-ignores-kyivs-call-for-30-day-ceasefire-9056953">Russia-Ukraine war: Putin proposes fresh talks with Ukraine in Istanbul, ignores Kyiv's call for 30-day ceasefire</a>
The ban comes just months after Sheikh Hasina was removed from office in a political shake-up that has sharply divided public opinion. The interim government has accused the Awami League of widespread corruption, suppression of dissent, and manipulation of democratic institutions during its years in power.
<h2 data-start="598" data-end="1011">Awami League toppled last year&nbsp;</h2>
<div class="_1884">Hasina&rsquo;s 16-year-long <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/awami-league">Awami League</a> regime was toppled on August 5 last year in a student-led violent mass uprising prompting the 77-year-old former prime minister to flee to India.&nbsp;Three days after her ouster, Yunus took charge as the chief adviser of the interim government.</div>
<div class="_1884"></div>
<div class="_1884">
<div class="_1884">A large part of Students against Discrimination (SAD), which led the last year&rsquo;s movement that ousted Hasina, crystalised as the National Citizen Party (NCP) earlier this year.</div>
<div></div>
<div class="_1884">Formed in 1949, the Awami League led the movement for the autonomy of Bengalis in the then East Pakistan for decades and eventually led the Liberation War in 1971.</div>
<div class="_1884">
The United Nations human rights office in a report said in February 2025 that up to 1,400 people may have been killed during three weeks of anti-Hasina protest.
</div>
</div>

World: The announcement to ban Hasina’s party came after student-led National Citizen Party activists protested and carried out blockades across Dhaka demanding the ban

In a significant political development, Bangladesh's interim government on Saturday banned the Awami League, the party long led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This move follows a period of growing tension and political unrest in the country, as the interim administration—backed by prominent civil society members and former Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus—seeks to overhaul the nation's governance system. “The official gazette notification will be issued in this regard on the next working day,” Yunus’s office said, describing it as a “statement of the Council of Advisers” or the Cabinet. The statement said the Council decided that the ban would remain effective until the completion of the “trial of the Awami League and its leaders in Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal in the interest of protecting the country’s security and sovereignty”. The Advisory Council also resolved to finalise and publish the July Declaration within the next 30 working days. Also Read: Russia-Ukraine war: Putin proposes fresh talks with Ukraine in Istanbul, ignores Kyiv's call for 30-day ceasefire The ban comes just months after Sheikh Hasina was removed from office in a political shake-up that has sharply divided public opinion. The interim government has accused the Awami League of widespread corruption, suppression of dissent, and manipulation of democratic institutions during its years in power. Awami League toppled last year Hasina’s 16-year-long Awami League regime was toppled on August 5 last year in a student-led violent mass uprising prompting the 77-year-old former prime minister to flee to India. Three days after her ouster, Yunus took charge as the chief adviser of the interim government. A large part of Students against Discrimination (SAD), which led the last year’s movement that ousted Hasina, crystalised as the National Citizen Party (NCP) earlier this year. Formed in 1949, the Awami League led the movement for the autonomy of Bengalis in the then East Pakistan for decades and eventually led the Liberation War in 1971. The United Nations human rights office in a report said in February 2025 that up to 1,400 people may have been killed during three weeks of anti-Hasina protest.

Bangladesh interim government bans activities of ousted PM Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League party

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a surprise overnight statement on Sunday (May 11) proposed a new round of direct peace talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on May 15.
The Russian president's statement comes after Kyiv and European leaders called for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire set to begin Monday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, along with the leaders of Britain, France, Germany and Poland, on Saturday (May 10) threatened Moscow with fresh sanctions if the nation did not agree with the proposal.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-ins-tamal-a-russian-built-stealth-frigate-equipped-with-indias-brahmos-missile-know-its-features-firepower-and-capabilities-9051585">Meet INS Tamal: A Russian-built stealth frigate equipped with India's BrahMos missile! Know its features, firepower and capabilities</a>
<h2>Putin ignores ceasefire proposal</h2>
The Russian president in his talks statement &ndash; delivered after 1:00 am (2200 GMT Saturday) in the Kremlin &ndash; made no mention of the ceasefire proposal and instead framed the return to talks as Russia's own initiative.
"We propose to the Kyiv authorities to resume the talks that they broke off in 2022, and, I emphasise, without any preconditions".
"We propose to start (negotiations) without delay on Thursday, May 15, in Istanbul," Putin said. He added that he would talk to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogdan soon to ask his help to facilitate the talks.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russia-celebrates-80th-victory-day-see-photos-9051324">Russia celebrates 80th Victory Day: See Photos</a>
<h2>Back to Istanbul?</h2>
Earlier, during the first few weeks of the conflict, the two nations had attempted to hold direct talks in Istanbul, but to no avail.
Russia and Ukraine last held direct peace talks in Istanbul in early 2022, weeks after Moscow launched its full-scale invasion. Those negotiations collapsed, and the war has only escalated since.
<h2>Root causes of conflict?</h2>
Vladimir Putin also claimed to be "committed to serious negotiations with Ukraine," and said that he was looking to "eliminate the root causes of the conflict and to establish a long-lasting peace".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-ready-for-talks-in-any-format-zelensky-tells-trump-but-demands-russia-to-show-intentions-to-end-war-9049931">&lsquo;Ukraine ready for talks in any format&rsquo;: Zelensky tells Trump, but demands Russia to show &lsquo;intentions to end war&rsquo;</a>
In the past, Russia's reference to "root causes of conflict" has typically referred to Moscow's push against NATO expansion, pledges to "de-Nazify" Ukraine, protect Russian speakers in Ukraine's east and stop the country's growing ties with the West.
Western leaders and Ukraine have consistently rejected Russia's framing of the war, particularly Moscow's references to "root causes". Instead they say Russia's offensive is nothing more than an imperial-style land grab.
Putin also said that Russia does not "exclude that during these talks we will be able to agree on some new ceasefire." He also accused Ukraine's Western allies of wanting to "continue war with Russia" and without mentioning the 30-day ceasefire proposal slammed European "ultimatums" and "anti-Russian rhetoric".
Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russia-asking-for-too-much-jd-vance-calls-out-moscow-wion-9048526">Russia-Ukraine War: 'Russia asking for too much': JD Vance calls out Moscow</a>
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/0805_WION_PUTIN_4PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0805_WION_PUTIN_4PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=88&amp;tags=russia ukraine war, jd vance, usa news" title="Russia-Ukraine War: 'Russia Asking For Too Much': JD Vance Calls Out Moscow | WION" id="PL_iframe_block-maj9mk0f-iioqk4ef-2ap7irhh"></iframe>
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Russia-Ukraine War: Explore Putin's unexpected proposal for new peace talks with Ukraine in Istanbul, sidestepping Kyiv's call for a 30-day ceasefire | World News

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a surprise overnight statement on Sunday (May 11) proposed a new round of direct peace talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on May 15. The Russian president's statement comes after Kyiv and European leaders called for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire set to begin Monday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, along with the leaders of Britain, France, Germany and Poland, on Saturday (May 10) threatened Moscow with fresh sanctions if the nation did not agree with the proposal. Also read | Meet INS Tamal: A Russian-built stealth frigate equipped with India's BrahMos missile! Know its features, firepower and capabilities Putin ignores ceasefire proposal The Russian president in his talks statement – delivered after 1:00 am (2200 GMT Saturday) in the Kremlin – made no mention of the ceasefire proposal and instead framed the return to talks as Russia's own initiative. "We propose to the Kyiv authorities to resume the talks that they broke off in 2022, and, I emphasise, without any preconditions". "We propose to start (negotiations) without delay on Thursday, May 15, in Istanbul," Putin said. He added that he would talk to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogdan soon to ask his help to facilitate the talks. Also read | Russia celebrates 80th Victory Day: See Photos Back to Istanbul? Earlier, during the first few weeks of the conflict, the two nations had attempted to hold direct talks in Istanbul, but to no avail. Russia and Ukraine last held direct peace talks in Istanbul in early 2022, weeks after Moscow launched its full-scale invasion. Those negotiations collapsed, and the war has only escalated since. Root causes of conflict? Vladimir Putin also claimed to be "committed to serious negotiations with Ukraine," and said that he was looking to "eliminate the root causes of the conflict and to establish a long-lasting peace". Also read | ‘Ukraine ready for talks in any format’: Zelensky tells Trump, but demands Russia to show ‘intentions to end war’ In the past, Russia's reference to "root causes of conflict" has typically referred to Moscow's push against NATO expansion, pledges to "de-Nazify" Ukraine, protect Russian speakers in Ukraine's east and stop the country's growing ties with the West. Western leaders and Ukraine have consistently rejected Russia's framing of the war, particularly Moscow's references to "root causes". Instead they say Russia's offensive is nothing more than an imperial-style land grab. Putin also said that Russia does not "exclude that during these talks we will be able to agree on some new ceasefire." He also accused Ukraine's Western allies of wanting to "continue war with Russia" and without mentioning the 30-day ceasefire proposal slammed European "ultimatums" and "anti-Russian rhetoric". Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: 'Russia asking for too much': JD Vance calls out Moscow

Russia-Ukraine war: Putin proposes fresh talks with Ukraine in Istanbul, ignores Kyiv's call for 30-day ceasefire

US President Donald Trump hailed a "total reset" in US-China trade relations, ahead of a second day of talks Sunday between top officials from Washington and Beijing aimed at de-escalating trade tensions sparked by his aggressive tariff rollout.
In a Truth Social post early Sunday, Trump praised the "very good" discussions and deemed them "a total reset negotiated in a friendly, but constructive, manner."
The second day of closed-door meetings between US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng are due to restart in the morning, according to an individual familiar with the talks who was not authorized to speak publicly.
"These talks reflect that the current state of the trade relations with these extremely high tariffs is ultimately in the interests of neither the United States nor China," Citigroup global chief economist Nathan Sheets told AFP, calling the tariffs a "lose-lose proposition."
The discussions are the first time senior officials from the world's two largest economies have met face-to-face to tackle the thorny topic of trade since Trump slapped steep new levies on China last month, sparking robust retaliation from Beijing.
The levies imposed by Trump on the Asian manufacturing giant since the start of the year currently total 145 percent, with cumulative US duties on some Chinese goods reaching a staggering 245 percent.
In retaliation, China put 125 percent tariffs on US goods, cementing what appears to be a near trade embargo between the two countries.
Ahead of the meeting, Trump signaled he might lower the tariffs, suggesting on social media that an "80% Tariff on China seems right!"
However, his press secretary Karoline Leavitt later clarified that the United States would not lower tariffs unilaterally, and that China would also need to make concessions.
<h2><hl2>'An important step'&nbsp;</hl2></h2>
The first day of negotiations occurred Saturday at the residence of the Swiss ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, a discrete villa with sky blue shutters near a large park on the left bank of Lake Geneva.
Going into the meeting, both sides played down expectations of a major change in trade relations, with Bessent underlining a focus on "de-escalation" and not a "big trade deal," and Beijing insisting the United States must ease tariffs first.
A commentary published by China's state news agency Xinhua called the talks "an important step in promoting the resolution of the issue."
The fact the talks are even happening "is good news for business, and for the financial markets," said Gary Hufbauer, a senior non-resident fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics (PIIE).
But Hufbauer cautioned he was "very skeptical that there will be any return to something like normal US-China trade relations," with even a tariff rate of 70 to 80 percent still potentially halving bilateral trade.
<h2><hl2>China 'better-equipped'</hl2></h2>
China's vice premier went into the discussions buoyed by Friday's news that China's exports rose last month despite the trade war.
The unexpected development was attributed by experts to a re-routing of trade to Southeast Asia to mitigate US tariffs.
Among some of the more moderate Trump officials like Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, "there's a realization that China is better equipped to deal with this trade war than the US," said Hufbauer.
The Geneva meeting comes after Trump unveiled a trade agreement with Britain, the first deal with any country since he unleashed his blitz of global tariffs.
The five-page, non-binding deal confirmed to nervous investors that the United States is willing to negotiate sector-specific relief from recent duties, but maintained a 10 percent baseline levy on most British goods.
Following the US-UK trade announcement, analysts have voiced pessimism about the likelihood negotiations will lead to any significant changes in the US-China trade relationship.
"It's nice that they're talking. But my expectations for the actual outcomes of this first round of talks is pretty limited," Sheets from Citigroup said.
"I think it's quite possible they'll walk away from Geneva saying how constructive and productive the talks were, but not actually reducing tariffs at all," Hufbauer said.
In his Truth Social post, Trump said the talks had made "GREAT PROGRESS!!"
"We want to see, for the good of both China and the U.S., an opening up of China to American business," he added.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US President Trump announces a total reset in US-China trade relations as high-level talks resume, aiming to ease tensions from recent aggressive tariffs.

US President Donald Trump hailed a "total reset" in US-China trade relations, ahead of a second day of talks Sunday between top officials from Washington and Beijing aimed at de-escalating trade tensions sparked by his aggressive tariff rollout. In a Truth Social post early Sunday, Trump praised the "very good" discussions and deemed them "a total reset negotiated in a friendly, but constructive, manner." The second day of closed-door meetings between US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng are due to restart in the morning, according to an individual familiar with the talks who was not authorized to speak publicly. "These talks reflect that the current state of the trade relations with these extremely high tariffs is ultimately in the interests of neither the United States nor China," Citigroup global chief economist Nathan Sheets told AFP, calling the tariffs a "lose-lose proposition." The discussions are the first time senior officials from the world's two largest economies have met face-to-face to tackle the thorny topic of trade since Trump slapped steep new levies on China last month, sparking robust retaliation from Beijing. The levies imposed by Trump on the Asian manufacturing giant since the start of the year currently total 145 percent, with cumulative US duties on some Chinese goods reaching a staggering 245 percent. In retaliation, China put 125 percent tariffs on US goods, cementing what appears to be a near trade embargo between the two countries. Ahead of the meeting, Trump signaled he might lower the tariffs, suggesting on social media that an "80% Tariff on China seems right!" However, his press secretary Karoline Leavitt later clarified that the United States would not lower tariffs unilaterally, and that China would also need to make concessions. 'An important step' The first day of negotiations occurred Saturday at the residence of the Swiss ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, a discrete villa with sky blue shutters near a large park on the left bank of Lake Geneva. Going into the meeting, both sides played down expectations of a major change in trade relations, with Bessent underlining a focus on "de-escalation" and not a "big trade deal," and Beijing insisting the United States must ease tariffs first. A commentary published by China's state news agency Xinhua called the talks "an important step in promoting the resolution of the issue." The fact the talks are even happening "is good news for business, and for the financial markets," said Gary Hufbauer, a senior non-resident fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics (PIIE). But Hufbauer cautioned he was "very skeptical that there will be any return to something like normal US-China trade relations," with even a tariff rate of 70 to 80 percent still potentially halving bilateral trade. China 'better-equipped' China's vice premier went into the discussions buoyed by Friday's news that China's exports rose last month despite the trade war. The unexpected development was attributed by experts to a re-routing of trade to Southeast Asia to mitigate US tariffs. Among some of the more moderate Trump officials like Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, "there's a realization that China is better equipped to deal with this trade war than the US," said Hufbauer. The Geneva meeting comes after Trump unveiled a trade agreement with Britain, the first deal with any country since he unleashed his blitz of global tariffs. The five-page, non-binding deal confirmed to nervous investors that the United States is willing to negotiate sector-specific relief from recent duties, but maintained a 10 percent baseline levy on most British goods. Following the US-UK trade announcement, analysts have voiced pessimism about the likelihood negotiations will lead to any significant changes in the US-China trade relationship. "It's nice that they're talking. But my expectations for the actual outcomes of this first round of talks is pretty limited," Sheets from Citigroup said. "I think it's quite possible they'll walk away from Geneva saying how constructive and productive the talks were, but not actually reducing tariffs at all," Hufbauer said. In his Truth Social post, Trump said the talks had made "GREAT PROGRESS!!" "We want to see, for the good of both China and the U.S., an opening up of China to American business," he added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Trump hails 'total reset' in US-China trade relations as talks continue

India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire on Saturday (May 10). While US President Donald Trump claimed credit for the India-Pakistan ceasefire, India's statement did not mention the United States. India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar&nbsp;reiterated India's commitment to fighting against terrorism but did not mention Trump or the US in his statement. Moreover, India's Ministry of Defence also briefed the nation on Pakistan's misinformation campaign, Operation Sindoor and ceasefire but did not mention the United States.
However, Trump and his team have claimed credit for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pakistan-operation-sindoor-pahalgam-terror-attack-agree-for-ceasefire-foreign-secretary-vikram-misri-9055414" rel="dofollow">ceasefire </a>between the two nuclear nations. This is despite US Vice President JD Vance saying a day before that America would not directly "intervene" in the matter as it is "none of America's business".
<h2>Trump and his team take credit</h2>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indo-pak-war-i-am-pleased-to-announce-that-india-and-pakistan-have-agreed-to-a-full-to-a-full-and-immediate-ceasefire-trump-on-truth-social-9055334" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> shared a post on Truth Social announcing that India and Pakistan "have agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire" and that "common sense and great intelligence" have prevailed. He congratulated both the countries for the ceasefire. The US Department of State in a statement called the ceasefire a 'US-brokered.'&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-maife4q7-yb8rxwby-ya1yw0h1">
<a href="https://t.co/lRPhZpugBV">pic.twitter.com/lRPhZpugBV</a>
&mdash; Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1921174163848401313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
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US claims credit for India, Pakistan 'understanding' achieved on ceasing military hostilities. State dept says it was a "U.S.-Brokered Ceasefire" between India and Pakistan <a href="https://t.co/ycqOdH1rB6">pic.twitter.com/ycqOdH1rB6</a>
&mdash; Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1921210971873309069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a post on X said that US Vice President JD Vance and Rubio engaged with senior Indian and Pakistani officials over 48 hours to confirm the ceasefire. Rubio also said that they spoke to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistani&nbsp;Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, Indian National Security Advisors Ajit Doval and Pakistani NSA Asim Malik.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-maie1icb-ev5oo6r0-a14mmm1y">
Over the past 48 hours, <a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a> Vance and I have engaged with senior Indian and Pakistani officials, including Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, and National Security Advisors Ajit&hellip;
&mdash; Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRubio/status/1921175185836708140?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-s-400-to-brahmos-missile-base-india-exposes-pakistans-misinformation-campaign-after-announcing-ceasefire-9055483">From S-400 to BrahMos missile base: India EXPOSES Pakistan&rsquo;s misinformation campaign after announcing ceasefire</a>
US Vice President JD Vance congratulated President Trump on the ceasefire, particularly Secretary Rubio. He also praised Indian and Pakistani leaders for their hard work and willingness for a ceasefire.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-maie1368-btasffej-koxrpez8">
Great work from the President&rsquo;s team, especially Secretary Rubio. And my gratitude to the leaders of India and Pakistan for their hard work and willingness to engage in this ceasefire. <a href="https://t.co/ddDzFMAT3H">https://t.co/ddDzFMAT3H</a>
&mdash; JD Vance (@JDVance) <a href="https://twitter.com/JDVance/status/1921188620452393411?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
Meanwhile, Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif also gave credit to Trump and his team for "proactive role for peace in the region." He thanked US Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio for their valuable contributions for peace in South Asia. He hailed the United States "for facilitating" the ceasefire and highlighted that Pakistan&nbsp;accepted it in the interest of regional peace and stability.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-maifo46k-qtct1n3c-ihopmxd0">
We thank President Trump for his leadership and proactive role for peace in the region . Pakistan appreciates the United States for facilitating this outcome, which we have accepted in the interest of regional peace and stability. We also thank Vice President JD Vance and&hellip;
&mdash; Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMShehbaz/status/1921220993101525318?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>'None of our business': Vance</h2>
A day before, in an interview with&nbsp;Fox News, US V-P Vance had said, "What we can do is try to encourage these folks to de-escalate a little bit. But we're not going to get involved in the middle of a war that&rsquo;s fundamentally none of our business and has nothing to do with America&rsquo;s ability to control it."
<h2>No mention of Trump in India's statement</h2>
India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri addressed a press conference but did not mention Trump, Rubio, Vance or the United States. Misri said, "Pakistan's Directors General of Military Operations (DGMO) called the Indian DGMO at 15:35 hours earlier this afternoon. It was agreed between them that both sides would stop all firing and military action on land and in the air and sea with effect from 1700 hours Indian Standard Time. Today, instructions have been given on both sides to give effect to this understanding. The Directors General of Military Operations will talk again on the 12th of May at 1200 hours ."&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-maie2pbk-qvo6q6uy-9c3ulfjo">
Foreign Secretary ShriVikram Misri has confirmed the implementation of a ceasefire under <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationSindoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationSindoor</a>. At 15:35 hrs today, the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of Pakistan contacted his Indian counterpart, and both sides agreed to halt all military action&mdash;on&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/a1PfmiBZpg">pic.twitter.com/a1PfmiBZpg</a>
&mdash; Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpokespersonMoD/status/1921209160370102660?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-rollback-of-action-pakistan-after-pahlagam-indus-waters-treaty-visa-cancellation-diplomatic-action-9055595">India firm on its stance on terror, no rollback of actions against Pakistan including Indus Waters Treaty: Govt Sources after ceasefire</a>
<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW98635770 BCX0" lang="EN-US" paraeid="{72e8589b-a918-43af-8099-c19f10be8cb5}{39}" paraid="1106180353" >Operation Sindoor</h2>
In a powerful and strategic response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pak-war-operation-sindoor-top-jem-and-let-members-killed-reports-9054511" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indian Armed Forces</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;early&nbsp;Wednesday (May 7) launched a series of precision strikes against nine terror camps&nbsp;located&nbsp;deep inside Pakistan and&nbsp;Pakistan-occupied Kashmir&nbsp;(PoK) under&nbsp;code-named&nbsp;Operation Sindoor.&nbsp;As per reports, at least five dreaded terrorists from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jaish-e-mohammed" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Jaish-e-Mohammed</a>&nbsp;(JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)&mdash;two Pakistan-based terror outfits have been eliminated.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a briefing on May 10 said that Operation Sindoor that Pakistan targeted hospitals and schools during its attack by violating airspace in 26 locations.&nbsp;
Earlier on May 7, when India conducted Operation Sindoor, women officers Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri informed that India exercised its right to respond. They said that India's actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible.&nbsp;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pak-tensions-india-to-consider-any-future-act-of-terror-as-act-of-war-govt-sources-9055241">Indo-Pak tensions | 'India to consider any future act of terror as act of war': Govt sources</a>

While US President Donald Trump claimed credit for the India-Pakistan ceasefire, India's statement did not mention the United States | India News, World, Pakistan

India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire on Saturday (May 10). While US President Donald Trump claimed credit for the India-Pakistan ceasefire, India's statement did not mention the United States. India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar reiterated India's commitment to fighting against terrorism but did not mention Trump or the US in his statement. Moreover, India's Ministry of Defence also briefed the nation on Pakistan's misinformation campaign, Operation Sindoor and ceasefire but did not mention the United States. However, Trump and his team have claimed credit for the ceasefire between the two nuclear nations. This is despite US Vice President JD Vance saying a day before that America would not directly "intervene" in the matter as it is "none of America's business". Trump and his team take credit Donald Trump shared a post on Truth Social announcing that India and Pakistan "have agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire" and that "common sense and great intelligence" have prevailed. He congratulated both the countries for the ceasefire. The US Department of State in a statement called the ceasefire a 'US-brokered.' pic.twitter.com/lRPhZpugBV — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 10, 2025 US claims credit for India, Pakistan 'understanding' achieved on ceasing military hostilities. State dept says it was a "U.S.-Brokered Ceasefire" between India and Pakistan pic.twitter.com/ycqOdH1rB6 — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) May 10, 2025 US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a post on X said that US Vice President JD Vance and Rubio engaged with senior Indian and Pakistani officials over 48 hours to confirm the ceasefire. Rubio also said that they spoke to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistani Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, Indian National Security Advisors Ajit Doval and Pakistani NSA Asim Malik. Over the past 48 hours, @VP Vance and I have engaged with senior Indian and Pakistani officials, including Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, and National Security Advisors Ajit… — Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) May 10, 2025 Read More | From S-400 to BrahMos missile base: India EXPOSES Pakistan’s misinformation campaign after announcing ceasefire US Vice President JD Vance congratulated President Trump on the ceasefire, particularly Secretary Rubio. He also praised Indian and Pakistani leaders for their hard work and willingness for a ceasefire. Great work from the President’s team, especially Secretary Rubio. And my gratitude to the leaders of India and Pakistan for their hard work and willingness to engage in this ceasefire. https://t.co/ddDzFMAT3H — JD Vance (@JDVance) May 10, 2025 Meanwhile, Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif also gave credit to Trump and his team for "proactive role for peace in the region." He thanked US Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio for their valuable contributions for peace in South Asia. He hailed the United States "for facilitating" the ceasefire and highlighted that Pakistan accepted it in the interest of regional peace and stability. We thank President Trump for his leadership and proactive role for peace in the region . Pakistan appreciates the United States for facilitating this outcome, which we have accepted in the interest of regional peace and stability. We also thank Vice President JD Vance and… — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 10, 2025 'None of our business': Vance A day before, in an interview with Fox News, US V-P Vance had said, "What we can do is try to encourage these folks to de-escalate a little bit. But we're not going to get involved in the middle of a war that’s fundamentally none of our business and has nothing to do with America’s ability to control it." No mention of Trump in India's statement India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri addressed a press conference but did not mention Trump, Rubio, Vance or the United States. Misri said, "Pakistan's Directors General of Military Operations (DGMO) called the Indian DGMO at 15:35 hours earlier this afternoon. It was agreed between them that both sides would stop all firing and military action on land and in the air and sea with effect from 1700 hours Indian Standard Time. Today, instructions have been given on both sides to give effect to this understanding. The Directors General of Military Operations will talk again on the 12th of May at 1200 hours ." Foreign Secretary ShriVikram Misri has confirmed the implementation of a ceasefire under #OperationSindoor. At 15:35 hrs today, the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of Pakistan contacted his Indian counterpart, and both sides agreed to halt all military action—on… pic.twitter.com/a1PfmiBZpg — Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) May 10, 2025 Read More | India firm on its stance on terror, no rollback of actions against Pakistan including Indus Waters Treaty: Govt Sources after ceasefire Operation Sindoor In a powerful and strategic response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, the Indian Armed Forces on early Wednesday (May 7) launched a series of precision strikes against nine terror camps located deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under code-named Operation Sindoor. As per reports, at least five dreaded terrorists from Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)—two Pakistan-based terror outfits have been eliminated. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a briefing on May 10 said that Operation Sindoor that Pakistan targeted hospitals and schools during its attack by violating airspace in 26 locations. Earlier on May 7, when India conducted Operation Sindoor, women officers Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri informed that India exercised its right to respond. They said that India's actions were measured and non-escalatory, proportionate and responsible. Read More | Indo-Pak tensions | 'India to consider any future act of terror as act of war': Govt sources

From 'none of our business' to Trump claiming credit for Indo-Pak ceasefire: Here's what we know

Just hours after India-Pakistan agreed for a ceasefire, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah posted that explosions were heard across Srinagar on Saturday.
India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has confirmed that India and Pakistan have agreed for a ceasefire with immediate effect from 17:00 on May 10.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pakistan-operation-sindoor-pahalgam-terror-attack-agree-for-ceasefire-foreign-secretary-vikram-misri-9055414">India, Pakistan agree to immediate ceasefire; EAM Jaishankar reiterates country's 'uncompromising stance against terrorism'</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/05/10/v135poPU5Oom8tpF0X29.png" alt=" Photograph: (Reuters) ">
India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has confirmed that India and Pakistan have agreed for a ceasefire with immediate effect from 17:00 on May 10. This comes after US President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that India and Pakistan have agreed for a "full and immediate ceasefire." India's foreign minister S Jaishankar also confirmed that both countries worked together to stop "firing and military action."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-the-hell-happened-to-ceasefire-explosions-heard-in-srinagar-hours-after-india-pak-ceasefire-says-jk-cm-omar-abdullah-9055913">'What the hell happened to ceasefire': Explosions heard in Srinagar hours after India-Pak ceasefire, says J&amp;K CM Omar Abdullah</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/05/10/gLJqnBiEeDPf1h7M9I6j.png" alt=" Explosions heard in Srinagar hours after India-Pak ceasefire Photograph: (X/OmarAbdullah) ">
Just hours after India-Pakistan agreed for a ceasefire, there has been a ceasefire violation in Srinagar. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah posted that explosions were heard across Srinagar on Saturday.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indo-pak-war-i-am-pleased-to-announce-that-india-and-pakistan-have-agreed-to-a-full-to-a-full-and-immediate-ceasefire-trump-on-truth-social-9055334">Indo-Pak ceasefire: US President Trump announces 'India and Pakistan agree on full and immediate ceasefire'</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/05/10/ku6VvCHtM1H7KSa79UAL.png" alt=" Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, US President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that, "After a long night of talks mediated by the United States, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a FULL AND IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE. Congratulations to both Countries on using Common Sense and Great Intelligence. Thank you for your attention to this matter!"
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-s-400-to-brahmos-missile-base-india-exposes-pakistans-misinformation-campaign-after-announcing-ceasefire-9055483">From S-400 to BrahMos missile base: India EXPOSES Pakistan&rsquo;s misinformation campaign after announcing ceasefire</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/05/10/NpiENfrmSWk4wIXHN0Ma.jpg" alt=" Col Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh Photograph: (MEA) ">
After the Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced a ceasefire, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, exposed Pakistan&rsquo;s misinformation campaign during a press briefing by the Ministry of Defence.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-rollback-of-action-pakistan-after-pahlagam-indus-waters-treaty-visa-cancellation-diplomatic-action-9055595">India firm on its stance on terror, no rollback of actions against Pakistan including Indus Waters Treaty: Govt Sources after ceasefire</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/05/10/EQ22el5OsNvMnMnlGf5n.png" alt=" Photograph: (Reuters) ">
India and Pakistan have agreed to a ceasefire with immediate effect from 17:00 on May 10. However, India remains committed to its fight against terror and EAM S Jaishankar also reiterated the same in his statement saying that the country will continue its "uncompromising stance against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations." Indian government sources have said that the stop of all firing and military action on land and in the air and sea does not mean that the country has rolled back its tough diplomatic actions against Pakistan.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pakistan-war-agreed-to-a-ceasefire-with-immediate-effect-says-pak-foreign-minister-9055430">India-Pakistan ceasefire: 'Agreed to a ceasefire with immediate effect', says Pak Foreign Minister</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/05/10/ByoEj6vEyHu4HSeBSP2d.jpeg" alt=" Pakistan Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar Photograph: (Others) ">
Pakistan Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Saturday said India and Pakistan have "agreed to a ceasefire with immediate effect." Taking to the microblogging site X, Dar said, Pakistan and India have agreed to a ceasefire with immediate effect. Pakistan has always strived for peace and security in the region, without compromising on its sovereignty and territorial integrity!"
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/your-social-media-feeds-are-under-attack-pib-warns-netizens-amid-india-pak-tensions-9055121">&lsquo;Your social media feeds are under attack&rsquo;: PIB warns netizens amid India-Pak tensions</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/05/10/MBnNClq75LXeyMeTnAjb.jpg" alt=" PIB fact-checks social media claims. Photograph: (X/@PIBFactCheck) ">
Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Press Information Bureau of India has issued a warning over the rising cases of fake news on social media.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-truth-to-such-claims-after-mea-refutes-pak-accusation-afghan-defence-ministry-rejects-claims-of-missile-strikes-by-india-9055096">'No truth to such claims': After MEA refutes Pak accusation, Afghan defence ministry rejects claims of missile strikes by India</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/05/10/VHn6r2EkM2dH79f1fEg5.jpg" alt=" Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri Photograph: (ANI) ">
Hours after Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri debunked Pakistan's claim of missile attack by India on Afghanistan by calling it &ldquo;ludicrous&rdquo;, Inayatullah Khawarizmi, a spokesman for the Afghan Ministry of Defense spoke to Hurriyat Radio and strongly rejected the claim made by Islamabad.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pak-ceasefire-india-is-a-secular-country-and-our-forces-carry-our-constitutional-values-indian-army-9055602">India-Pak ceasefire | 'India is a secular country and our forces carry our Constitutional values': Indian Army</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/05/10/33lInGevsggTvoEssCLm.png" alt=" Ministry of Defence press conference on Saturday Photograph: (ANI) ">
Tensions between India and Pakistan rose sharply after Pakistan launched an attack on India's Jammu &amp; Kashmir on Saturday (May 10).
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-did-virat-kohli-hint-at-test-retirement-during-australian-tour-down-under-heres-what-we-know-bgt-202425-9055164">Did Virat Kohli hint at Test retirement during Australian tour Down Under? Here&rsquo;s what we know</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/05/10/NSpvAvWsrC1x6v6NRXkx.jpg" alt=" Did Virat Kohli hint at Test retirement during Australian tour Down Under Here&rsquo;s what we know Photograph: (Others) ">
Virat Kohli has shocked the cricket world after expressing his desire to retire from Test cricket ahead of India&rsquo;s first international assignment &ndash; the away England Tests, since IPL 2025. The Indian batting great is said to have informed BCCI officials about his decision to step aside from red-ball cricket, with the latest reports suggesting that he even dropped hints about this to his teammates during the away Australian tour Down Under, which India lost 1-3, conceding the BGT for the first time in a decade.

Stay informed with our roundup of the top global stories. From breaking news to major developments, get insights into what matters most internationally. India news | World

Just hours after India-Pakistan agreed for a ceasefire, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah posted that explosions were heard across Srinagar on Saturday. India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has confirmed that India and Pakistan have agreed for a ceasefire with immediate effect from 17:00 on May 10. Click on the headlines for more India, Pakistan agree to immediate ceasefire; EAM Jaishankar reiterates country's 'uncompromising stance against terrorism' India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has confirmed that India and Pakistan have agreed for a ceasefire with immediate effect from 17:00 on May 10. This comes after US President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that India and Pakistan have agreed for a "full and immediate ceasefire." India's foreign minister S Jaishankar also confirmed that both countries worked together to stop "firing and military action." 'What the hell happened to ceasefire': Explosions heard in Srinagar hours after India-Pak ceasefire, says J&K CM Omar Abdullah Just hours after India-Pakistan agreed for a ceasefire, there has been a ceasefire violation in Srinagar. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah posted that explosions were heard across Srinagar on Saturday. Indo-Pak ceasefire: US President Trump announces 'India and Pakistan agree on full and immediate ceasefire' Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, US President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that, "After a long night of talks mediated by the United States, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a FULL AND IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE. Congratulations to both Countries on using Common Sense and Great Intelligence. Thank you for your attention to this matter!" From S-400 to BrahMos missile base: India EXPOSES Pakistan’s misinformation campaign after announcing ceasefire After the Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced a ceasefire, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, exposed Pakistan’s misinformation campaign during a press briefing by the Ministry of Defence. India firm on its stance on terror, no rollback of actions against Pakistan including Indus Waters Treaty: Govt Sources after ceasefire India and Pakistan have agreed to a ceasefire with immediate effect from 17:00 on May 10. However, India remains committed to its fight against terror and EAM S Jaishankar also reiterated the same in his statement saying that the country will continue its "uncompromising stance against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations." Indian government sources have said that the stop of all firing and military action on land and in the air and sea does not mean that the country has rolled back its tough diplomatic actions against Pakistan. India-Pakistan ceasefire: 'Agreed to a ceasefire with immediate effect', says Pak Foreign Minister Pakistan Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Saturday said India and Pakistan have "agreed to a ceasefire with immediate effect." Taking to the microblogging site X, Dar said, Pakistan and India have agreed to a ceasefire with immediate effect. Pakistan has always strived for peace and security in the region, without compromising on its sovereignty and territorial integrity!" ‘Your social media feeds are under attack’: PIB warns netizens amid India-Pak tensions Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Press Information Bureau of India has issued a warning over the rising cases of fake news on social media. 'No truth to such claims': After MEA refutes Pak accusation, Afghan defence ministry rejects claims of missile strikes by India Hours after Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri debunked Pakistan's claim of missile attack by India on Afghanistan by calling it “ludicrous”, Inayatullah Khawarizmi, a spokesman for the Afghan Ministry of Defense spoke to Hurriyat Radio and strongly rejected the claim made by Islamabad. India-Pak ceasefire | 'India is a secular country and our forces carry our Constitutional values': Indian Army Tensions between India and Pakistan rose sharply after Pakistan launched an attack on India's Jammu & Kashmir on Saturday (May 10). Did Virat Kohli hint at Test retirement during Australian tour Down Under? Here’s what we know Virat Kohli has shocked the cricket world after expressing his desire to retire from Test cricket ahead of India’s first international assignment – the away England Tests, since IPL 2025. The Indian batting great is said to have informed BCCI officials about his decision to step aside from red-ball cricket, with the latest reports suggesting that he even dropped hints about this to his teammates during the away Australian tour Down Under, which India lost 1-3, conceding the BGT for the first time in a decade.

Top 10 world news: India, Pakistan announce ceasefire; Explosions heard in J&K's Srinagar, and more

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Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> announced on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/truth-social">Truth Social</a> that, "After a long night of talks mediated by the United States, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a FULL AND IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE. Congratulations to both Countries on using Common Sense and Great Intelligence. Thank you for your attention to this matter!"
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Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/marco-rubio">Marco Rubio</a>, United States Secretary of State also said, "Over the past 48 hours, @VP&nbsp;Vance and I have engaged with senior Indian and Pakistani officials, including Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, and National Security Advisors Ajit Doval and Asim Malik."
"I am pleased to announce the Governments of India and Pakistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire and to start talks on a broad set of issues at a neutral site."
"We commend Prime Ministers Modi and Sharif on their wisdom, prudence, and statesmanship in choosing the path of peace."
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Over the past 48 hours, <a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a> Vance and I have engaged with senior Indian and Pakistani officials, including Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, and National Security Advisors Ajit&hellip;
&mdash; Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRubio/status/1921175185836708140?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Meanwhile, Vice President of the United States <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jd-vance">JD Vance</a> also tweeted on X.
<h2>See the post on X:</h2>
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<a href="https://t.co/A8BzchkgbJ">pic.twitter.com/A8BzchkgbJ</a>
&mdash; JD Vance (@JDVance) <a href="https://twitter.com/JDVance/status/1921174026723971392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote>

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World, India News: US President Donald Trump on Saturday claimed through Truth Social that India and Pakistan have agreed for full and immediate ceasefire

Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, US President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that, "After a long night of talks mediated by the United States, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a FULL AND IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE. Congratulations to both Countries on using Common Sense and Great Intelligence. Thank you for your attention to this matter!" Meanwhile, Marco Rubio, United States Secretary of State also said, "Over the past 48 hours, @VP Vance and I have engaged with senior Indian and Pakistani officials, including Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, and National Security Advisors Ajit Doval and Asim Malik." "I am pleased to announce the Governments of India and Pakistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire and to start talks on a broad set of issues at a neutral site." "We commend Prime Ministers Modi and Sharif on their wisdom, prudence, and statesmanship in choosing the path of peace." Over the past 48 hours, @VP Vance and I have engaged with senior Indian and Pakistani officials, including Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, and National Security Advisors Ajit… — Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) May 10, 2025 Meanwhile, Vice President of the United States JD Vance also tweeted on X. See the post on X: pic.twitter.com/A8BzchkgbJ — JD Vance (@JDVance) May 10, 2025

Indo-Pak ceasefire: US President Trump announces 'India and Pakistan agree on full and immediate ceasefire'

India's Armed Forces carried out Operation Sindoor on May 7 from 1.05 am to 1.30 am, hitting terror camps and launchpads, in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). One of India's targets was Jaish-e-Mohammad's Markaz Subhan Allah complex in Bahawalpur. An American activist shared a post on X that the strike in Bhawalpur was justice for American-Jewish journalist Daniel Pearl, a reporter with The Wall Street Journal, who was kidnapped and beheaded by terrorist Omar Saeed Sheikh in Pakistan in 2002.&nbsp;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/when-rauf-azhar-killed-in-indias-operation-sindoor-kidnapped-and-beheaded-jewish-american-journalist-daniel-pearl-9049164">When Rauf Azhar, killed in India's Operation Sindoor, kidnapped and beheaded Jewish-American journalist Daniel Pearl</a>
Reacting to this, Daniel Pearl's father Judea Pearl said that the hijacking of Air India flight IC814 was planned by Rauf Azhar - who has been likely killed in India's strike. The hijacking led to the release of terrorist Omar Saeed Sheikh who lured, kidnapped and beheaded Daniel Pearl.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-mai3h6nb-7uluma95-y4evrptb">
I wish these dignitaries could tell us: "What exactly are you mourning? What role models you wish your children to revere? What have you learned from this man? <a href="https://t.co/Z6DRQFJvkR">https://t.co/Z6DRQFJvkR</a>
&mdash; Judea Pearl (@yudapearl) <a href="https://twitter.com/yudapearl/status/1920751723976495356?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2025</a></blockquote>
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pak-war-operation-sindoor-top-jem-and-let-members-killed-reports-9054511">Indo-Pak war: Top JeM and LeT members killed in Operation Sindoor-Reports</a>
Following the strikes, a photo surfaced on social media showing uniformed Pakistan Army personnel attending the funeral of three terrorists killed in the strikes. Standing alongside them was Hafiz Abdul Rauf, a US-designated global terrorist. Judea Pearl also criticized Pakistan Army for attending the funeral of the terrorists. Pearl expressed his outrage on X asking, "What have you learned from this man?"
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-mai3h9zj-16w2b2qd-ypx336wv">
I want to thank all of you who reached out to me today in response to the news that India's military forces have eliminated Abdul Rauf Azhar&mdash;a man described as 'responsible for the kidnapping and murder of my son, Daniel.' I want to clarify: Azhar was a Pakistani extremist and&hellip;
&mdash; Judea Pearl (@yudapearl) <a href="https://twitter.com/yudapearl/status/1920612397800436110?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
Read More |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pak-india-pakistan-war-news-latest-operation-sindoor-wing-commander-vyomika-singh-vikram-misri-col-sofiya-qureshi-ministry-of-external-affairs-9054054">Indo-Pak war | Pakistan showing intent to further escalate matter by moving troops forward: MEA</a>
Earlier, American activist Amy Mek, founder of the RAIR Foundation, wrote: "Today, India delivered justice for the brutal murder of American-Jewish journalist Daniel Pearl by eliminating Abdul Rauf Azhar, the Jaish-e-Mohammed commander and key conspirator behind Pearl's kidnapping, torture, and beheading."
"Operation Sindoor struck at the heart of terror, hitting Jaish-e-Mohammed strongholds and sending a clear message: India will not stand by while radicals slaughter non-Muslims. To India, we say THANK YOU," she added.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-mai3jcsz-yp96dqyb-g0dliqtd">
🚨 Justice for Daniel Pearl: India Strikes Back! 🇮🇳 Today, India delivered justice for the brutal murder of American-Jewish journalist Daniel Pearl by eliminating Abdul Rauf Azhar, the Jaish-e-Mohammed commander and key conspirator behind Pearl&rsquo;s kidnapping, torture, and&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/wNGep3BD5H">pic.twitter.com/wNGep3BD5H</a>
&mdash; Amy Mek (@AmyMek) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmyMek/status/1920404688182391035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
India's strike was in response to the terror attack on April 22 in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/operation-sindoor-indian-armed-forces-strike-at-terrorist-camps-pahalgam-terror-attack-india-pakistan-9042302" rel="dofollow">Track all updates on India Pakistan tensions here&nbsp;</a>

World, India News, pakistan | American-Jewish journalist Daniel Pearl's father has slammed Pakistan Army for attending funeral of terrorists amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan

India's Armed Forces carried out Operation Sindoor on May 7 from 1.05 am to 1.30 am, hitting terror camps and launchpads, in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). One of India's targets was Jaish-e-Mohammad's Markaz Subhan Allah complex in Bahawalpur. An American activist shared a post on X that the strike in Bhawalpur was justice for American-Jewish journalist Daniel Pearl, a reporter with The Wall Street Journal, who was kidnapped and beheaded by terrorist Omar Saeed Sheikh in Pakistan in 2002. Read More | When Rauf Azhar, killed in India's Operation Sindoor, kidnapped and beheaded Jewish-American journalist Daniel Pearl Reacting to this, Daniel Pearl's father Judea Pearl said that the hijacking of Air India flight IC814 was planned by Rauf Azhar - who has been likely killed in India's strike. The hijacking led to the release of terrorist Omar Saeed Sheikh who lured, kidnapped and beheaded Daniel Pearl. I wish these dignitaries could tell us: "What exactly are you mourning? What role models you wish your children to revere? What have you learned from this man? https://t.co/Z6DRQFJvkR — Judea Pearl (@yudapearl) May 9, 2025 Read More | Indo-Pak war: Top JeM and LeT members killed in Operation Sindoor-Reports Following the strikes, a photo surfaced on social media showing uniformed Pakistan Army personnel attending the funeral of three terrorists killed in the strikes. Standing alongside them was Hafiz Abdul Rauf, a US-designated global terrorist. Judea Pearl also criticized Pakistan Army for attending the funeral of the terrorists. Pearl expressed his outrage on X asking, "What have you learned from this man?" I want to thank all of you who reached out to me today in response to the news that India's military forces have eliminated Abdul Rauf Azhar—a man described as 'responsible for the kidnapping and murder of my son, Daniel.' I want to clarify: Azhar was a Pakistani extremist and… — Judea Pearl (@yudapearl) May 8, 2025 Read More | Indo-Pak war | Pakistan showing intent to further escalate matter by moving troops forward: MEA Earlier, American activist Amy Mek, founder of the RAIR Foundation, wrote: "Today, India delivered justice for the brutal murder of American-Jewish journalist Daniel Pearl by eliminating Abdul Rauf Azhar, the Jaish-e-Mohammed commander and key conspirator behind Pearl's kidnapping, torture, and beheading." "Operation Sindoor struck at the heart of terror, hitting Jaish-e-Mohammed strongholds and sending a clear message: India will not stand by while radicals slaughter non-Muslims. To India, we say THANK YOU," she added. 🚨 Justice for Daniel Pearl: India Strikes Back! 🇮🇳 Today, India delivered justice for the brutal murder of American-Jewish journalist Daniel Pearl by eliminating Abdul Rauf Azhar, the Jaish-e-Mohammed commander and key conspirator behind Pearl’s kidnapping, torture, and… pic.twitter.com/wNGep3BD5H — Amy Mek (@AmyMek) May 8, 2025 India's strike was in response to the terror attack on April 22 in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians. Track all updates on India Pakistan tensions here

'What exactly are you mourning?' Daniel Pearl’s father slams Pakistan Army for attending funeral of terrorists

Tensions between India and Pakistan rose sharply after Pakistan launched an attack on India's Jammu &amp; Kashmir on Saturday (May 10).
Pakistan's attack came after it claimed missile attacks on multiple PAF airbases, including Nur Khan Military Airbase in Rawalpindi, Murid Airbase in Chakwal and Rafiqui Airbase in Shorkot, Jhang district. 
This comes just days after India launched Operation Sindoor, which targeted nine terror camps inside Pakistan. The situation has drawn attention from several world powers, with many calling for calm and urging both countries to avoid further escalation.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pak-war-india-strikes-pakistan-operation-sindoor-nur-khan-airbase-rawalpindi-murid-airbase-chakwal-rafiqui-airbase-9053521" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indo-Pak War: Pakistan claims missile strikes on three airbases including Nur Khan in Rawalpindi</a>
<h2>G7 urges 'maximum restraint'</h2>
In a strong message, the G7 foreign ministers condemned the recent terror attack in Pahalgam on 22 April and called for both India and Pakistan to avoid further conflict.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pak-war-india-strikes-pakistan-operation-sindoor-jk-udhampur-srinagar-akhnoor-9053538" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indo-Pak war: Rajouri Ad. District Commissioner Raj Kumar Thappa dies in blast in J&amp;K; Indian Army destroys Pakistani posts, terrorist launchpads</a>
"We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union, strongly condemn the egregious terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22 and urge maximum restraint from both India and Pakistan. Further military escalation poses a serious threat to regional stability. We are deeply concerned for the safety of civilians on both sides," the G7 statement said.
They also called for immediate talks between the two countries, "We call for immediate de-escalation and encourage both countries to engage in direct dialogue towards a peaceful outcome. We continue to monitor events closely and express our support for a swift and lasting diplomatic resolution."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pak-war-us-turkey-brazil-norway-world-reacts-to-pakistan-failed-drone-attack-india-operation-sindoor-india-pakistan-war-pahalgam-terror-attack-9049961" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indo-Pak War | US 'not going to get involved'; Turkey 'concerned': World reacts to Pakistan&rsquo;s failed&nbsp;attack&nbsp;on&nbsp;India</a>
<h2>US says Trump wants quick end to conflict</h2>
The United States also reacted, with White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt saying President Trump is closely watching the situation and supports efforts to calm tensions.
"This is something that the Secretary of State and now our NSA as well, Marco Rubio, has been involved in. The President has expressed that he wants this to de-escalate as quickly as possible. He understands these two countries have been at odds with one another for decades, long before President Trump was here at the Oval Office," she said during a briefing.
She added, "However, he has good relations with the leaders of both countries. Secretary of State <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eam-s-jaishankar-issues-statement-after-speaking-to-marco-rubio-9050651" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Marco Rubio</a> has been in constant communication with the leaders of both countries, trying to bring this conflict to an end."
<h2>Saudi Arabia sends envoy to both countries</h2>
Saudi Arabia also stepped in. The Kingdom sent a senior official to visit both India and Pakistan on 8 and 9 May in an effort to help lower tensions.
"Upon the directives of the leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Member of the Council of Ministers, and Climate Envoy, visited the Republic of #India and the Islamic Republic of #Pakistan during the period of May 8&ndash;9, 2025. The visit comes as part of the Kingdom&rsquo;s efforts towards de-escalation."
<h2>'Give priority to peace and stability' </h2>
China on Saturday (May 10) urged India and Pakistan to avoid an escalation in fighting, Beijing's foreign ministry said, as the conflict between its two nuclear-armed neighbours spiralled toward full-blown war.
"We strongly call on both India and Pakistan to give priority to peace and stability, remain calm and restrained, return to the track of political settlement through peaceful means and avoid taking actions that further escalate tensions," a statement by a foreign ministry spokesperson said.

World: In a strong message, the G7 foreign ministers condemned the recent terror attack in Pahalgam on 22 April and called for both India and Pakistan to avoid further conflict.

Tensions between India and Pakistan rose sharply after Pakistan launched an attack on India's Jammu & Kashmir on Saturday (May 10). Pakistan's attack came after it claimed missile attacks on multiple PAF airbases, including Nur Khan Military Airbase in Rawalpindi, Murid Airbase in Chakwal and Rafiqui Airbase in Shorkot, Jhang district. This comes just days after India launched Operation Sindoor, which targeted nine terror camps inside Pakistan. The situation has drawn attention from several world powers, with many calling for calm and urging both countries to avoid further escalation. Also read: Indo-Pak War: Pakistan claims missile strikes on three airbases including Nur Khan in Rawalpindi G7 urges 'maximum restraint' In a strong message, the G7 foreign ministers condemned the recent terror attack in Pahalgam on 22 April and called for both India and Pakistan to avoid further conflict. Also read: Indo-Pak war: Rajouri Ad. District Commissioner Raj Kumar Thappa dies in blast in J&K; Indian Army destroys Pakistani posts, terrorist launchpads "We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union, strongly condemn the egregious terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22 and urge maximum restraint from both India and Pakistan. Further military escalation poses a serious threat to regional stability. We are deeply concerned for the safety of civilians on both sides," the G7 statement said. They also called for immediate talks between the two countries, "We call for immediate de-escalation and encourage both countries to engage in direct dialogue towards a peaceful outcome. We continue to monitor events closely and express our support for a swift and lasting diplomatic resolution." Also read: Indo-Pak War | US 'not going to get involved'; Turkey 'concerned': World reacts to Pakistan’s failed attack on India US says Trump wants quick end to conflict The United States also reacted, with White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt saying President Trump is closely watching the situation and supports efforts to calm tensions. "This is something that the Secretary of State and now our NSA as well, Marco Rubio, has been involved in. The President has expressed that he wants this to de-escalate as quickly as possible. He understands these two countries have been at odds with one another for decades, long before President Trump was here at the Oval Office," she said during a briefing. She added, "However, he has good relations with the leaders of both countries. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been in constant communication with the leaders of both countries, trying to bring this conflict to an end." Saudi Arabia sends envoy to both countries Saudi Arabia also stepped in. The Kingdom sent a senior official to visit both India and Pakistan on 8 and 9 May in an effort to help lower tensions. "Upon the directives of the leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Member of the Council of Ministers, and Climate Envoy, visited the Republic of #India and the Islamic Republic of #Pakistan during the period of May 8–9, 2025. The visit comes as part of the Kingdom’s efforts towards de-escalation." 'Give priority to peace and stability' China on Saturday (May 10) urged India and Pakistan to avoid an escalation in fighting, Beijing's foreign ministry said, as the conflict between its two nuclear-armed neighbours spiralled toward full-blown war. "We strongly call on both India and Pakistan to give priority to peace and stability, remain calm and restrained, return to the track of political settlement through peaceful means and avoid taking actions that further escalate tensions," a statement by a foreign ministry spokesperson said.

Indo-Pak war: Trump calls for 'quick end', G7 'condemn Pahalgam attack' | World reacts to sharp escalation between India & Pakistan

India raised objections over the poor track record of Pakistan and on the possibility of it misusing debt financing funds for state-sponsored cross-border terrorism at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) meeting on Friday on the bailout package for Islamabad, while questioning the efficacy of IMF programmes in the case of Pakistan. Raising its objections, India abstained from voting to mark its dissent.
The IMF reviewed the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) lending programme ($1 billion) and also considered a fresh Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) lending programme ($1.3 billion) for Pakistan, where India pointed out that rewarding continued sponsorship of cross-border terrorism sends a dangerous message to the global community, exposes funding agencies and donors to reputational risks, and makes a mockery of global values.
As an active and responsible member country, India raised concerns over the efficacy of IMF programmes in the case of a bailout package for Pakistan, given its poor track record.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/where-is-jaish-e-mohammed-chief-masood-azhar-is-he-hiding-in-an-isi-safehouse-9052122" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Where is Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar? Is he hiding in an ISI safehouse?</a> India pointed out that Pakistan has been a borrower from the IMF since 1989, with a very poor track record of implementation and of adherence to its programme conditions. It added that Pakistan would not have approached the IMF for yet another bailout if it had implemented the previous programmes properly. Besides, the extensive role of the Pakistani military in economic affairs also raises serious questions, as the army continues to play an outsized role in politics and the economy even when a civilian government is in power.&nbsp;
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-fired-300-400-drones-last-night-to-target-indias-military-installation-govt-9052477" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pakistan fired 300-400 drones last night to target India&rsquo;s military installation: Govt</a> &ldquo;In fact, a 2021 UN report described military-linked businesses as the &lsquo;largest conglomerate in Pakistan&rsquo;. The situation has not changed for the better; rather the Pakistan Army now plays a leading role in the Special Investment Facilitation Council of Pakistan,&rdquo; New Delhi said in a statement.&nbsp; India also flagged the Pakistan chapter of the IMF Report on Evaluation of Prolonged Use of IMF Resources, which noted that there was a widespread perception that political considerations play an important role in the IMF lending to Pakistan.&nbsp;
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pak-war-indian-envoy-to-us-schools-cnn-anchor-over-remarks-on-jammu-and-kashmir-operation-sindoor-9051643" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Indo-Pak war: Indian envoy to US schools CNN anchor over remarks on Jammu and Kashmir</a> Moreover, Pakistan&rsquo;s debt burden is very high as a result of repeated bailouts, making it a too-big-to-fail debtor for the IMF. There is a serious gap highlighting the urgent need to ensure that moral values are given appropriate consideration in the procedures followed by global financial institutions, India added.
<h2>Decision-making and voting procedure at IMF</h2>
The IMF Executive Board consists of 25 directors who represent member countries or groups of countries. It handles daily operational matters, including loan approvals. Unlike in the United Nations, where each country has one vote, IMF voting power reflects the economic size of each member. For instance, a big economy like the United States holds a disproportionately high voting share. To simplify things, the IMF typically makes decisions by consensus. &nbsp; In cases where a vote is required, the system does not allow a formal &lsquo;no&rsquo; vote. Directors can either vote in favour or abstain. There is no provision to vote against a loan or proposal, hence India abstained after registering protest.
<h2>IMF approves USD 1 billion loan for Pakistan</h2>
After the voting, the IMF approved the immediate disbursement of about USD 1 billion to Pakistan under the ongoing Extended Fund Faci&shy;li&shy;ty, saying its economic situation has improved, as per a statement from the Pakistion PMO.
Pakistan had secured a $7 billion bailout programme from the IMF last year and was granted a new $1.3 billion climate resilience loan in March.
 
&nbsp;

World | Business & Economy | India News : India pointed out that Pakistan has been a borrower from the IMF since 1989, with a very poor track record of implementation and of adherence to its programme conditions.

India raised objections over the poor track record of Pakistan and on the possibility of it misusing debt financing funds for state-sponsored cross-border terrorism at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) meeting on Friday on the bailout package for Islamabad, while questioning the efficacy of IMF programmes in the case of Pakistan. Raising its objections, India abstained from voting to mark its dissent. The IMF reviewed the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) lending programme ($1 billion) and also considered a fresh Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) lending programme ($1.3 billion) for Pakistan, where India pointed out that rewarding continued sponsorship of cross-border terrorism sends a dangerous message to the global community, exposes funding agencies and donors to reputational risks, and makes a mockery of global values. As an active and responsible member country, India raised concerns over the efficacy of IMF programmes in the case of a bailout package for Pakistan, given its poor track record. Also Read | Where is Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar? Is he hiding in an ISI safehouse? India pointed out that Pakistan has been a borrower from the IMF since 1989, with a very poor track record of implementation and of adherence to its programme conditions. It added that Pakistan would not have approached the IMF for yet another bailout if it had implemented the previous programmes properly. Besides, the extensive role of the Pakistani military in economic affairs also raises serious questions, as the army continues to play an outsized role in politics and the economy even when a civilian government is in power. Also Read | Pakistan fired 300-400 drones last night to target India’s military installation: Govt “In fact, a 2021 UN report described military-linked businesses as the ‘largest conglomerate in Pakistan’. The situation has not changed for the better; rather the Pakistan Army now plays a leading role in the Special Investment Facilitation Council of Pakistan,” New Delhi said in a statement. India also flagged the Pakistan chapter of the IMF Report on Evaluation of Prolonged Use of IMF Resources, which noted that there was a widespread perception that political considerations play an important role in the IMF lending to Pakistan. Also Read | Indo-Pak war: Indian envoy to US schools CNN anchor over remarks on Jammu and Kashmir Moreover, Pakistan’s debt burden is very high as a result of repeated bailouts, making it a too-big-to-fail debtor for the IMF. There is a serious gap highlighting the urgent need to ensure that moral values are given appropriate consideration in the procedures followed by global financial institutions, India added. Decision-making and voting procedure at IMF The IMF Executive Board consists of 25 directors who represent member countries or groups of countries. It handles daily operational matters, including loan approvals. Unlike in the United Nations, where each country has one vote, IMF voting power reflects the economic size of each member. For instance, a big economy like the United States holds a disproportionately high voting share. To simplify things, the IMF typically makes decisions by consensus. In cases where a vote is required, the system does not allow a formal ‘no’ vote. Directors can either vote in favour or abstain. There is no provision to vote against a loan or proposal, hence India abstained after registering protest. IMF approves USD 1 billion loan for Pakistan After the voting, the IMF approved the immediate disbursement of about USD 1 billion to Pakistan under the ongoing Extended Fund Facility, saying its economic situation has improved, as per a statement from the Pakistion PMO. Pakistan had secured a $7 billion bailout programme from the IMF last year and was granted a new $1.3 billion climate resilience loan in March.

India abstains from voting on IMF’s bailout package for Pak, cites its ‘poor track record’

A man in China has given away nearly 10 million yuan (US$1.4 million) to more than 2,000 employees. He made that money as profit from gold futures investments. Liu Mingjun, a former musician, says that he specialises in futures trading and has been doing it for 20 years.
Liu told Jiupai News that he distributed a total of 9.13 million yuan (US$1.25 million) he made in one year of investment in gold futures. Those who benefited from the generous giveaway include cooks and cleaners.
Liu became an entrepreneur in 2021 and founded the Ronghe 1+1 Fresh Supermarket chain in Shanxi province, northern China. Today, he owns 33 outlets and employs a total of 2,040 people.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-man-quit-job-to-care-for-baby-ended-up-divorced-and-with-post-partum-depression-9022713" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Chinese man quit job to care for baby, ended up divorced and with post-partum depression</a>
He told the publication that this was the first time in 20 years that he had made such a huge profit. Liu shared that the idea did not come to him in a haste. In fact, he had promised his staff two years back that if he were to become rich, he would share it with everyone.&nbsp;
"It comes from the heart and is not just an empty promise,&rdquo; he said, adding that it was not a way to motivate the staff, and he talked about it at employee training sessions.
&ldquo;I will do my best to make sure my employees feel happy,&rdquo; Liu said.&nbsp;
Liu has promised that this is not the last time he has done this.
&ldquo;This profit distribution will definitely not be the last time.&rdquo;
<h2>Pile of cash, people lined up to get the money</h2>
A shop manager confirmed that everyone, even cleaners and cooks, got the money. The distribution was based on the time people had spent with the company.
Those who had worked for more than two years received 10,000 yuan (US$1,400), and staff with one to two years got 2,000 yuan as &ldquo;travel compensation&rdquo;, besides two days of leave.
One thousand yuan was given to those who had been with the company for less than a year, along with two days of leave.
Videos online showed the staff lining up to get the money as a pile of cash sat at the table. One of them said that when he first learned the news, he thought the boss was "drunk."

A man in China shared profits he made from gold futures with over 2,000 staff members. He plans on doing it again in the future when he makes more money. World Trending

A man in China has given away nearly 10 million yuan (US$1.4 million) to more than 2,000 employees. He made that money as profit from gold futures investments. Liu Mingjun, a former musician, says that he specialises in futures trading and has been doing it for 20 years. Liu told Jiupai News that he distributed a total of 9.13 million yuan (US$1.25 million) he made in one year of investment in gold futures. Those who benefited from the generous giveaway include cooks and cleaners. Liu became an entrepreneur in 2021 and founded the Ronghe 1+1 Fresh Supermarket chain in Shanxi province, northern China. Today, he owns 33 outlets and employs a total of 2,040 people. Also Read: Chinese man quit job to care for baby, ended up divorced and with post-partum depression He told the publication that this was the first time in 20 years that he had made such a huge profit. Liu shared that the idea did not come to him in a haste. In fact, he had promised his staff two years back that if he were to become rich, he would share it with everyone. "It comes from the heart and is not just an empty promise,” he said, adding that it was not a way to motivate the staff, and he talked about it at employee training sessions. “I will do my best to make sure my employees feel happy,” Liu said. Liu has promised that this is not the last time he has done this. “This profit distribution will definitely not be the last time.” Pile of cash, people lined up to get the money A shop manager confirmed that everyone, even cleaners and cooks, got the money. The distribution was based on the time people had spent with the company. Those who had worked for more than two years received 10,000 yuan (US$1,400), and staff with one to two years got 2,000 yuan as “travel compensation”, besides two days of leave. One thousand yuan was given to those who had been with the company for less than a year, along with two days of leave. Videos online showed the staff lining up to get the money as a pile of cash sat at the table. One of them said that when he first learned the news, he thought the boss was "drunk."

A man made $1.4 million in gold profits and gave it all away to his 2,000 employees

Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed Moscow will be victorious in Ukraine as the Soviet Union was in WWII, rallying Russians to support troops at Moscow's grand Red Square military parade in front of his key allies on Friday.&nbsp;
Putin sat with China's Xi Jinping watching thousands of troops -- some of whom fought in Ukraine -- and an array of weapons, including new tanks and drones, by the Kremlin to mark the defeat of the Nazis.
Since launching the Ukraine offensive in 2022, Putin has evoked the Soviet war effort for his military campaign. Moscow's troops occupy a fifth of Ukraine and the three-year offensive killed thousands of people.&nbsp;
As Putin, Xi and some 20 other leaders were on Red Square, EU ministers were in Ukraine's Lviv, expected to endorse the creation of a special tribunal to try Russia's top leadership.&nbsp;
"The whole country, society and people support the participants of the special military operation," Putin said, addressing the parade.
"We are proud of their bravery and determination, of the fortitude that has always brought us only victory."&nbsp;
Russia has banned criticism of its offensive and hundreds of thousands of Russians have fled their country since.
Around 1,500 troops that had fought in Ukraine were among 11,000 marching on Red Square, state media reported.
For the first time, Russia showcased attack drones during the parade -- including those used in Ukraine -- alongside dozens of military vehicles. This is a contrast to previous years, when there were few tanks as most were at the front in Ukraine.&nbsp;
Putin also greeted heavily decorated North Korean officers on Red Square. Pyongyang sent thousands of troops to Russia to help Moscow oust Ukrainian troops from its Kursk region.&nbsp;
"All the best to you and all your troops," he was heard saying.
Chinese troops took part in the parade, with Putin and Xi holding talks a day earlier.&nbsp;
<h2>'Proud'</h2>
AFP journalists saw spectators cheer as troops who fought in Ukraine marched by.&nbsp;
Putin has long said that the Soviet Union and primarily Russia were the main victors in WWII and called his nation Friday the "heirs of victors".&nbsp;
Olga Zhuravleva, whose father and grandfather fought in WWII, decried US leader Donald Trump for saying the war was "mostly accomplished because of us."&nbsp;
"Complete nonsense," she said, adding that she feels "great" pride for her country.&nbsp;
The Soviet Union lost more than 20 million civilians in WWII. These included Russians, Belarusians, Ukrainians, Central Asians and other peoples from the Soviet Union.&nbsp;
Under 25 years of Putin's rule, the Kremlin has tightly controlled historical memory, promoting a patriotic vision of the 20th century -- praising military feats, while glossing over uncomfortable parts such as the Soviet-Nazi Pact and the 1939 invasion of Poland.&nbsp;
Putin and other foreign leaders laid wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the Alexander Garden by the Kremlin walls. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who defied Brussels by going to Moscow, stood behind Putin.&nbsp;
<h2>'Last year' of conflict </h2>
Talks by the US with both Ukraine and Russia to end the conflict appear to have stalled. But many in Moscow were still hopeful.&nbsp;
Natalia Tarasova, 45, came from Russian-occupied Donetsk in eastern Ukraine to watch the Moscow parade. Fighting has made holding events in Donetsk impossible.
"We believe that it is the last year when we do not meet on our square (to hold a parade)," she told AFP. &nbsp;
Putin has declared a three-day truce in Ukraine to mark the occasion.
But Kyiv has accused Russia of violating it hundreds of times. Moscow has also said that Kyiv launched attacks.&nbsp;
Ukraine's national police said Friday that a Russian drone attack killed a 63-year-old woman the day before in the Zaporizhzhia region, despite the truce.&nbsp;
Kyiv reported attacks in the Zaporizhzhia, Kherson and Dnipropetrovsk regions Friday.&nbsp;
<h2>Europe Day in Lviv </h2>
Kyiv argues the parade has "nothing to do with the victory over Nazism" and that those marching on Red Square were "quite likely" implicit in crimes against Ukrainians. &nbsp;
As Putin saluted his troops on Red Square, EU foreign ministers were in Ukraine's Lviv in a show of support, in a step towards the creation of a tribunal for Moscow to face punishment.&nbsp;
"There will be no impunity, there will be accountability for the crimes committed," EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas said Thursday in Warsaw before travelling to Kyiv.&nbsp;
The special tribunal is designed to prosecute Russia's top leadership for the "crime of aggression".
The International Criminal Court (ICC) in the Hague has already issued arrest warrants for Putin over the abduction of Ukrainian children, and four of his top commanders for targeting civilians.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Russian President Putin praises troops fighting in Ukraine, drawing parallels to WWII at a military parade in Moscow attended by foreign leaders, including Xi Jinping.

Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed Moscow will be victorious in Ukraine as the Soviet Union was in WWII, rallying Russians to support troops at Moscow's grand Red Square military parade in front of his key allies on Friday. Putin sat with China's Xi Jinping watching thousands of troops -- some of whom fought in Ukraine -- and an array of weapons, including new tanks and drones, by the Kremlin to mark the defeat of the Nazis. Since launching the Ukraine offensive in 2022, Putin has evoked the Soviet war effort for his military campaign. Moscow's troops occupy a fifth of Ukraine and the three-year offensive killed thousands of people. As Putin, Xi and some 20 other leaders were on Red Square, EU ministers were in Ukraine's Lviv, expected to endorse the creation of a special tribunal to try Russia's top leadership. "The whole country, society and people support the participants of the special military operation," Putin said, addressing the parade. "We are proud of their bravery and determination, of the fortitude that has always brought us only victory." Russia has banned criticism of its offensive and hundreds of thousands of Russians have fled their country since. Around 1,500 troops that had fought in Ukraine were among 11,000 marching on Red Square, state media reported. For the first time, Russia showcased attack drones during the parade -- including those used in Ukraine -- alongside dozens of military vehicles. This is a contrast to previous years, when there were few tanks as most were at the front in Ukraine. Putin also greeted heavily decorated North Korean officers on Red Square. Pyongyang sent thousands of troops to Russia to help Moscow oust Ukrainian troops from its Kursk region. "All the best to you and all your troops," he was heard saying. Chinese troops took part in the parade, with Putin and Xi holding talks a day earlier. 'Proud' AFP journalists saw spectators cheer as troops who fought in Ukraine marched by. Putin has long said that the Soviet Union and primarily Russia were the main victors in WWII and called his nation Friday the "heirs of victors". Olga Zhuravleva, whose father and grandfather fought in WWII, decried US leader Donald Trump for saying the war was "mostly accomplished because of us." "Complete nonsense," she said, adding that she feels "great" pride for her country. The Soviet Union lost more than 20 million civilians in WWII. These included Russians, Belarusians, Ukrainians, Central Asians and other peoples from the Soviet Union. Under 25 years of Putin's rule, the Kremlin has tightly controlled historical memory, promoting a patriotic vision of the 20th century -- praising military feats, while glossing over uncomfortable parts such as the Soviet-Nazi Pact and the 1939 invasion of Poland. Putin and other foreign leaders laid wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the Alexander Garden by the Kremlin walls. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who defied Brussels by going to Moscow, stood behind Putin. 'Last year' of conflict Talks by the US with both Ukraine and Russia to end the conflict appear to have stalled. But many in Moscow were still hopeful. Natalia Tarasova, 45, came from Russian-occupied Donetsk in eastern Ukraine to watch the Moscow parade. Fighting has made holding events in Donetsk impossible. "We believe that it is the last year when we do not meet on our square (to hold a parade)," she told AFP. Putin has declared a three-day truce in Ukraine to mark the occasion. But Kyiv has accused Russia of violating it hundreds of times. Moscow has also said that Kyiv launched attacks. Ukraine's national police said Friday that a Russian drone attack killed a 63-year-old woman the day before in the Zaporizhzhia region, despite the truce. Kyiv reported attacks in the Zaporizhzhia, Kherson and Dnipropetrovsk regions Friday. Europe Day in Lviv Kyiv argues the parade has "nothing to do with the victory over Nazism" and that those marching on Red Square were "quite likely" implicit in crimes against Ukrainians. As Putin saluted his troops on Red Square, EU foreign ministers were in Ukraine's Lviv in a show of support, in a step towards the creation of a tribunal for Moscow to face punishment. "There will be no impunity, there will be accountability for the crimes committed," EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas said Thursday in Warsaw before travelling to Kyiv. The special tribunal is designed to prosecute Russia's top leadership for the "crime of aggression". The International Criminal Court (ICC) in the Hague has already issued arrest warrants for Putin over the abduction of Ukrainian children, and four of his top commanders for targeting civilians. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Putin hails troops fighting in Ukraine as foreign leaders attend parade

Amid rising tension between India and Pakistan, Vikram Doraiswami, India's High Commissioner to the UK, spoke about how the latter has been using terror outfits to wage&nbsp;subcritical warfare against India.
In a conversation with news outlet Sky News, journalist Yalda Hakim, he pulled out the picture of the funeral in which the Pakistani army is standing with a sanctioned terrorist during the funeral of what they say are civilians.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sajid-mir-the-terrorist-pakistan-brought-back-to-life-amid-international-pressure-9043359">Who is Sajid Mir, the terrorist Vikram Misri said Pakistan 'brought back' from the dead?</a>
And these 'civilians' were killed in Muridke, headquarters of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The civilians in question are also being accorded state honours.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-magl5pzk-53j227ek-2630b9yk">
India's High Commissioner to the UK shows <a href="https://twitter.com/SkyYaldaHakim?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SkyYaldaHakim</a> a photo which he claims shows Pakistani military standing behind "a sanctioned terrorist under the American sanctions regime" called Hafiz Abdul Rauf. Sky News cannot verify the photo. 📺 Sky 501 &amp; YouTube <a href="https://t.co/TGfXtOkpTI">pic.twitter.com/TGfXtOkpTI</a>
&mdash; Sky News (@SkyNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/SkyNews/status/1920597628292600133?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
Doraiswami said, "This person here is a sanctioned terrorist under the American sanctions regime. His name is Hafiz Abdul Rauf; he's the brother of the founder of the terrorist group you are mentioning."
"Look who's behind him &ndash; the Pakistani military. Look at the coffins there; they have the Pakistani national flag. If you are going to be giving terrorists state funerals, what does that make of your system. Everybody knows that for the last 30 years, Pakistan has used this as a means of subcritical warfare against India."
On Thursday (May 8), India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, in a briefing, also flagged this photograph, asking if this was normal.
He said, "If only civilians were killed in these attacks, then I wonder what message this picture sends to all of you. This is a question worth asking. Giving state funerals to terrorists may be a practice in Pakistan, but it doesn't seem to make much sense to us."
"Pakistan has also claimed that India deliberately attacked religious sites; this is completely false. It is Pakistan that is misusing religious sites as a cover to radicalise, direct, indoctrinate and train terrorists," he added
&nbsp;

India's High Commissioner to the UK spoke about how Pakistan has been using terror outfits to wage subcritical warfare against India. World

Amid rising tension between India and Pakistan, Vikram Doraiswami, India's High Commissioner to the UK, spoke about how the latter has been using terror outfits to wage subcritical warfare against India. In a conversation with news outlet Sky News, journalist Yalda Hakim, he pulled out the picture of the funeral in which the Pakistani army is standing with a sanctioned terrorist during the funeral of what they say are civilians. Also read: Who is Sajid Mir, the terrorist Vikram Misri said Pakistan 'brought back' from the dead? And these 'civilians' were killed in Muridke, headquarters of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The civilians in question are also being accorded state honours. India's High Commissioner to the UK shows @SkyYaldaHakim a photo which he claims shows Pakistani military standing behind "a sanctioned terrorist under the American sanctions regime" called Hafiz Abdul Rauf. Sky News cannot verify the photo. 📺 Sky 501 & YouTube pic.twitter.com/TGfXtOkpTI — Sky News (@SkyNews) May 8, 2025 Doraiswami said, "This person here is a sanctioned terrorist under the American sanctions regime. His name is Hafiz Abdul Rauf; he's the brother of the founder of the terrorist group you are mentioning." "Look who's behind him – the Pakistani military. Look at the coffins there; they have the Pakistani national flag. If you are going to be giving terrorists state funerals, what does that make of your system. Everybody knows that for the last 30 years, Pakistan has used this as a means of subcritical warfare against India." On Thursday (May 8), India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, in a briefing, also flagged this photograph, asking if this was normal. He said, "If only civilians were killed in these attacks, then I wonder what message this picture sends to all of you. This is a question worth asking. Giving state funerals to terrorists may be a practice in Pakistan, but it doesn't seem to make much sense to us." "Pakistan has also claimed that India deliberately attacked religious sites; this is completely false. It is Pakistan that is misusing religious sites as a cover to radicalise, direct, indoctrinate and train terrorists," he added

'Look who's behind him – Pak military': India's High Commissioner to UK exposes Pakistan's state-sponsored terrorism

Cricket Australia is keeping close tabs on the Aussie players and coaching staff currently working in India and Pakistan as diplomatic tension between the two neighbours escalates. As per a statement released on Friday (May 9) by Cricket Australia, it is closely monitoring the situation in Pakistan and India while in touch with the government and diplomats. Both India and Pakistan are nearing a war after India retaliated against Pakistan for killing at least 26 people (mostly tourists) on April 22 in Pahalgam.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">CA keeping close tabs</h2>
"We continue to closely monitor the situation in Pakistan and India, including obtaining regular advice and updates from the Australian Government, the PCB, BCCI and local government authorities, and maintaining communication with our players and support staff currently in the region," CA said in a statement on Friday morning.
On Friday, the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) was reportedly suspended due to ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan as the two nations near a war. After the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals match in Dharamsala was called off on Thursday due to &ldquo;technical reasons,&rdquo; it was assumed that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) could take necessary precautions for player safety. However, it has now emerged that the IPL 2025 season will be suspended with immediate effect, with further details awaited.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pak-war-latest-news-we-are-proud-neeraj-chopra-reacts-on-indian-defence-forcesswift-reply-to-pakistani-attack-9049871" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indo-Pak War | 'We are proud,' Neeraj Chopra reacts on Indian defence forces' swift reply to Pakistani attack</a>
"It does not look nice that cricket goes on while the country is at war," a BCCI official told PTI, confirming the suspension of the league, which was to wind up on May 25 in Kolkata.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">What next for IPL 2025?</h2>
While there is no official word on when the IPL 2025 will resume, it is expected that BCCI will move quickly to explore the options as the calendar for players (especially Indian) is tight. The BCCI could move the rest of the IPL 2025 to a foreign country, like it has in the past or wait for a window of 2-3 weeks in the coming months to finish the tournament.<o:p></o:p>

Cricket Australia is keeping close tabs on the Aussie players and coaching staff currently working in India and Pakistan as diplomatic tension between the two neighbours escalates. World | Cricket | Sports

Cricket Australia is keeping close tabs on the Aussie players and coaching staff currently working in India and Pakistan as diplomatic tension between the two neighbours escalates. As per a statement released on Friday (May 9) by Cricket Australia, it is closely monitoring the situation in Pakistan and India while in touch with the government and diplomats. Both India and Pakistan are nearing a war after India retaliated against Pakistan for killing at least 26 people (mostly tourists) on April 22 in Pahalgam. CA keeping close tabs "We continue to closely monitor the situation in Pakistan and India, including obtaining regular advice and updates from the Australian Government, the PCB, BCCI and local government authorities, and maintaining communication with our players and support staff currently in the region," CA said in a statement on Friday morning. On Friday, the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) was reportedly suspended due to ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan as the two nations near a war. After the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals match in Dharamsala was called off on Thursday due to “technical reasons,” it was assumed that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) could take necessary precautions for player safety. However, it has now emerged that the IPL 2025 season will be suspended with immediate effect, with further details awaited. ALSO READ | Indo-Pak War | 'We are proud,' Neeraj Chopra reacts on Indian defence forces' swift reply to Pakistani attack "It does not look nice that cricket goes on while the country is at war," a BCCI official told PTI, confirming the suspension of the league, which was to wind up on May 25 in Kolkata. What next for IPL 2025? While there is no official word on when the IPL 2025 will resume, it is expected that BCCI will move quickly to explore the options as the calendar for players (especially Indian) is tight. The BCCI could move the rest of the IPL 2025 to a foreign country, like it has in the past or wait for a window of 2-3 weeks in the coming months to finish the tournament.

Indo-Pak War: Cricket Australia keeping close tabs on Aussie players in IPL, PSL

Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, became the first American to be elected as the successor of Pope Francis. Born in Chicago and spending most of his time in Peru was elected by 133 red-robbed Cardinals who were sequestered inside the Sistine Chapel as the leader of 1.4 billion Catholics across the globe. This has generated widespread reactions from international leaders.
Read Also: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-newly-elected-pope-criticise-trump-administration-heres-what-his-social-media-reveals-9050009" aria-label="Did newly elected Pope criticise Trump administration? Here&rsquo;s what his social media reveals" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Did newly elected Pope criticise Trump administration? Here&rsquo;s what his social media reveals</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Reaction from the USA</h2>
President Donald Trump termed the election a "Great Honour&rdquo; for the Country, expressing eagerness to meet the new pope.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Vice President J.D. Vance, who is a practising Catholic, Pope Leo XIV and extended prayers for his successful leadership.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Former President Barack Obama celebrated the ascension of a fellow Chicagoan to the papacy and called it a "historic day for the United States."&nbsp;&nbsp;
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson remarked, "Everything dope, including the Pope, comes from Chicago!"&nbsp;&nbsp;
Read Also:&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-the-newly-elected-pope-leo-xiv-first-american-pontiff-in-history-9049844" aria-label="Who is the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, first American pontiff in history?" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Who is the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, first American pontiff in history?</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Everything dope, including the Pope, comes from Chicago! Congratulations to the first American Pope Leo XIV! We hope to welcome you back home soon. <a href="https://t.co/CBnXVjNhbJ">https://t.co/CBnXVjNhbJ</a>
&mdash; Mayor Brandon Johnson (@ChicagosMayor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChicagosMayor/status/1920533436248305771?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Global Reactions</h2>
Stephen Cortell, the archbishop of York and the acting head of the church of England, expressed great joy with his fellow Anglicans in welcoming "the Bishop of Rome".&nbsp;
"As Anglicans, we give thanks for his call to Christians to be bridge-builders across the divisions of our world, and the divisions that continue to exist between churches. This is something Jesus asks of us."
French President Emmanuel Macron described it as a "historic moment". He extended a message of fraternity to all the Catholic people across the world. In a post on X, President Macron wrote, &ldquo;May this new pontificate be one of peace and hope.&rdquo;
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called it a "deeply profound moment" for all Catholics across the globe and expressed his desire to meet the Pope. He also emphasised the Holy See's role in addressing major issues like climate change, poverty and social justice.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/war-news-red-dragon-suicide-drone-chooses-its-target-and-strikes-like-a-missile-9050682" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Suicide drone with brains chooses its own target using AI and dive-bombs like a missile</a>
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni wished for a successful beginning of the pontificate of Pope, noting the pope's call for peace and brotherhood during times of conflict.&nbsp;&nbsp;
"In a time marked by conflict and unrest, his words from the Loggia delle Benedizioni are a powerful call for peace, brotherhood and responsibility," read a post from PM Giorgia Meloni
Irish Prime Minister Miche&aacute;l Martin reflected on the joy in St. Peter&rsquo;s Square, expressing hope that global goodwill would support Pope Leo XIV in his responsibilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky valued the Holy See's consistent stance on international law and hoped for continued Vatican support in Ukraine's pursuit of justice and peace.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>Significance</h2>
Pope Leo XIV's election is seen as a continuation of Pope Francis's reformist legacy, emphasising inclusivity, social justice, and environmental stewardship.&nbsp; His appointment is welcomed by many in the progressive camp however, his appointment has not been desirable to the Cardinal brothers, close to Trump. American origin and a moderate stance have the potential to bridge divides within the Church and engage with contemporary global challenges.&nbsp;
Read Also:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-ready-for-talks-in-any-format-zelensky-tells-trump-but-demands-russia-to-show-intentions-to-end-war-9049931" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-ready-for-talks-in-any-format-zelensky-tells-trump-but-demands-russia-to-show-intentions-to-end-war-9049931" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Ukraine ready for talks in any format&rsquo;: Zelensky tells Trump, but demands Russia to show &lsquo;intentions to end war&rsquo;</a>

Elected by Cardinals, Pope Leo XIV, a Chicago native with a Peruvian background, leads a billion Catholics, emphasising inclusivity and social justice. World

Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, became the first American to be elected as the successor of Pope Francis. Born in Chicago and spending most of his time in Peru was elected by 133 red-robbed Cardinals who were sequestered inside the Sistine Chapel as the leader of 1.4 billion Catholics across the globe. This has generated widespread reactions from international leaders. Read Also: Did newly elected Pope criticise Trump administration? Here’s what his social media reveals Reaction from the USA President Donald Trump termed the election a "Great Honour” for the Country, expressing eagerness to meet the new pope. Vice President J.D. Vance, who is a practising Catholic, Pope Leo XIV and extended prayers for his successful leadership. Former President Barack Obama celebrated the ascension of a fellow Chicagoan to the papacy and called it a "historic day for the United States." Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson remarked, "Everything dope, including the Pope, comes from Chicago!" Read Also: Who is the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, first American pontiff in history? Everything dope, including the Pope, comes from Chicago! Congratulations to the first American Pope Leo XIV! We hope to welcome you back home soon. https://t.co/CBnXVjNhbJ — Mayor Brandon Johnson (@ChicagosMayor) May 8, 2025 Global Reactions Stephen Cortell, the archbishop of York and the acting head of the church of England, expressed great joy with his fellow Anglicans in welcoming "the Bishop of Rome". "As Anglicans, we give thanks for his call to Christians to be bridge-builders across the divisions of our world, and the divisions that continue to exist between churches. This is something Jesus asks of us." French President Emmanuel Macron described it as a "historic moment". He extended a message of fraternity to all the Catholic people across the world. In a post on X, President Macron wrote, “May this new pontificate be one of peace and hope.” British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called it a "deeply profound moment" for all Catholics across the globe and expressed his desire to meet the Pope. He also emphasised the Holy See's role in addressing major issues like climate change, poverty and social justice. Read Also: Suicide drone with brains chooses its own target using AI and dive-bombs like a missile Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni wished for a successful beginning of the pontificate of Pope, noting the pope's call for peace and brotherhood during times of conflict. "In a time marked by conflict and unrest, his words from the Loggia delle Benedizioni are a powerful call for peace, brotherhood and responsibility," read a post from PM Giorgia Meloni Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin reflected on the joy in St. Peter’s Square, expressing hope that global goodwill would support Pope Leo XIV in his responsibilities. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky valued the Holy See's consistent stance on international law and hoped for continued Vatican support in Ukraine's pursuit of justice and peace. Significance Pope Leo XIV's election is seen as a continuation of Pope Francis's reformist legacy, emphasising inclusivity, social justice, and environmental stewardship. His appointment is welcomed by many in the progressive camp however, his appointment has not been desirable to the Cardinal brothers, close to Trump. American origin and a moderate stance have the potential to bridge divides within the Church and engage with contemporary global challenges. Read Also: ‘Ukraine ready for talks in any format’: Zelensky tells Trump, but demands Russia to show ‘intentions to end war’

Global joy and social media buzz as Pope Leo XIV elected first American pontiff

The United States will soon have a drone that will be able to choose its own target, causing massive damage upon hitting it. An American defence contractor revealed the faceless suicide bomber in a video. Named Red Dragon, the drone has been developed by AeroVironment. They are "one-way attack drones" that will help the US maintain "air superiority".
Drones have overtaken the defence landscape of the world. AeroVironment said that the new suicide drone can reach speeds up to 100 mph. They are capable of travelling nearly 400 kilometres.&nbsp;
The drone weighs only 20 kg and takes only 10 minutes to set up and launch. The Red Dragon are placed on a small tripod, and once the process of set up is complete, soldiers will be able to launch up to five of them every minute. AI powers the drone and can carry up to 22 pounds of explosives.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/operation-sindoor-masood-azhars-brother-abdul-rauf-air-india-ic814-hijack-daniel-pearl-behading-and-attacks-he-planned-in-india-9050464" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Operation Sindoor likely killed Masood Azhar's brother Abdul Rauf: IC814 hijack and attacks he planned in India</a>
<h2>Red Dragon drone is like a missile</h2>
The new drone selects its target and then dive-bombs, emulating a missile. The damage Red Dragon would cause will depend on the target itself, as shown in the video shared by AeroVironment, where Red Dragon struck tanks, military vehicles, camps and small buildings.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pak-war-pakistan-asks-international-partners-for-money-and-more-loans-claims-heavy-losses-amid-tensions-with-india-operation-sindoor-pakistan-in-debt-9050442" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indo-Pak war: Pakistan asks international partners for 'more loans,' claims 'heavy losses' amid tensions with India</a>
Unlike other US military drones, which carry their missiles, Red Dragon has been designed to act like a missile with its speed and operation. The company has said that it is ready for mass production of the bomb with brains.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/indo-pak-war-pakistan-claims-x-post-asking-international-partners-for-more-loans-fake-says-account-hacked-operation-sindoor-pakistan-war-india-pakistan-war-pahalgam-terror-attack-9050504" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indo-Pak war: Pakistan claims X post asking international partners for 'more loans' fake, says account hacked</a>
But having a drone that picks its own target has also triggered an ethical conundrum, as human intervention is minimal, and none at all when choosing what to kill and what to spare. Having a machine make such decisions has spun an entirely different matter.
<h2>Technology that powers the Red Dragon drone</h2>
The AVACORE software architecture manages the drone's systems. It acts as its brain, telling it what to do. Red Dragon's SPOTR-Edge perception system is what helps it find the target using AI.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/operation-sindoor-indian-army-releases-first-official-video-of-destroying-pakistani-military-posts-9050577" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">India-Pak War | Indian Army releases first official video showing destruction of Pakistani military posts</a>
Responding to the question of minimum human intervention, the Department of Defense (DoD) has said the military's policy doesn't allow this to happen, and that someone "who understands the boundaries of the technology" would always be responsible for deploying it. It also mandates "autonomous and semi-autonomous weapon systems" to have the option for humans to control the device.
<h2>HAROP drone used in India-Pak War</h2>
India and Pakistan are also in a state of war, with drones playing a major role. India is said to have used the HAROP drones, made by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), in Operation Sindoor. It is a formidable loitering munition, equipped to hunt high-value targets. A loitering munition precisely locates the target and hovers over it before striking it.

War news: Red Dragon suicide drone can reach speeds up to 100 mph. It can travel nearly 400 kilometres, choose its own target and strike like a missile. World Trending

The United States will soon have a drone that will be able to choose its own target, causing massive damage upon hitting it. An American defence contractor revealed the faceless suicide bomber in a video. Named Red Dragon, the drone has been developed by AeroVironment. They are "one-way attack drones" that will help the US maintain "air superiority". Drones have overtaken the defence landscape of the world. AeroVironment said that the new suicide drone can reach speeds up to 100 mph. They are capable of travelling nearly 400 kilometres. The drone weighs only 20 kg and takes only 10 minutes to set up and launch. The Red Dragon are placed on a small tripod, and once the process of set up is complete, soldiers will be able to launch up to five of them every minute. AI powers the drone and can carry up to 22 pounds of explosives. Also Read: Operation Sindoor likely killed Masood Azhar's brother Abdul Rauf: IC814 hijack and attacks he planned in India Red Dragon drone is like a missile The new drone selects its target and then dive-bombs, emulating a missile. The damage Red Dragon would cause will depend on the target itself, as shown in the video shared by AeroVironment, where Red Dragon struck tanks, military vehicles, camps and small buildings. Also Read: Indo-Pak war: Pakistan asks international partners for 'more loans,' claims 'heavy losses' amid tensions with India Unlike other US military drones, which carry their missiles, Red Dragon has been designed to act like a missile with its speed and operation. The company has said that it is ready for mass production of the bomb with brains. Also Read: Indo-Pak war: Pakistan claims X post asking international partners for 'more loans' fake, says account hacked But having a drone that picks its own target has also triggered an ethical conundrum, as human intervention is minimal, and none at all when choosing what to kill and what to spare. Having a machine make such decisions has spun an entirely different matter. Technology that powers the Red Dragon drone The AVACORE software architecture manages the drone's systems. It acts as its brain, telling it what to do. Red Dragon's SPOTR-Edge perception system is what helps it find the target using AI. Also Read: India-Pak War | Indian Army releases first official video showing destruction of Pakistani military posts Responding to the question of minimum human intervention, the Department of Defense (DoD) has said the military's policy doesn't allow this to happen, and that someone "who understands the boundaries of the technology" would always be responsible for deploying it. It also mandates "autonomous and semi-autonomous weapon systems" to have the option for humans to control the device. HAROP drone used in India-Pak War India and Pakistan are also in a state of war, with drones playing a major role. India is said to have used the HAROP drones, made by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), in Operation Sindoor. It is a formidable loitering munition, equipped to hunt high-value targets. A loitering munition precisely locates the target and hovers over it before striking it.

Suicide drone with brains chooses its own target using AI and dive-bombs like a missile

The United Kingdom and the United States of America announced on May 8 a limited trade agreement to ease the recent trade tensions and strengthen their bilateral ties. This framework, while not a comprehensive free trade agreement, but, according to President Trump it is the first Fair, Open, and Reciprocal Trade Deal, which earlier presidents never cared about.&nbsp;
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<h2>Key Provisions of the Agreement&nbsp;</h2>
The baseline tariff is likely to remain 10 per cent. The United States has provided some exemptions to UK-made cars by 10 per cent, with a cap of 100,000 vehicles annually. This is a significant relief compared to the 25% levy on top of the existing 2.5% tariff for most vehicle imports announced on May 3 on the US Imports. Additionally, Tariffs on UK steel and aluminium exports to the U.S. have been eliminated.
The UK will lower its 19 per cent of the U.S. ethanol, facilitating up to $700 million in annual exports. The agreement plans to open up trade barriers to beef, U.S. beef and machinery, which will lead to an increase of $5 billion in export value.
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Both countries have also agreed to reduce non-tariff barriers and streamline customs procedures to expedite the movement of goods across&nbsp;
"As part of this Deal, America will raise 6 BILLION DOLLARS in External Revenue from 10% Tariffs, 5 BILLION DOLLARS in new Export Opportunities for our Great Ranchers, Farmers, and Producers", read a post by President Trump on Truth social.
<iframe width="731" height="341" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/114472802068018414/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

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<h2>Political Context</h2>
In Washington, the Trump administration is marketing this deal as a historic breakthrough. On the other hand, the announcements of the deal will be seen as a major relief for British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. He is navigating a tough situation with disappointing local election results. This deal will portray him as a solid negotiator.&nbsp;
However, observers believe that the deal only reverses the tariff that was imposed during the Presidency of Donald Trump, and the UK had to make concessions to achieve the same.&nbsp;
While the agreement addresses a few of the immediate trade concerns, many issues remain unresolved, including the UK's digital services tax and tariffs on pharmaceuticals and media.
Both nations have indicated that better negotiations are necessary to achieve a comprehensive deal, and both of them remain steadfast in continuing their longstanding cooperation.
Read Also: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-pope-elected-robert-francis-prevost-becomes-first-pope-from-us-9049830" aria-label="New Pope Elected: Robert Francis Prevost becomes first pope from US">New Pope Elected: Robert Francis Prevost becomes first pope from US</a>

Discover how the UK and US have struck a limited trade deal to ease tariffs and boost bilateral commerce, enhancing economic ties between the two nations. World

The United Kingdom and the United States of America announced on May 8 a limited trade agreement to ease the recent trade tensions and strengthen their bilateral ties. This framework, while not a comprehensive free trade agreement, but, according to President Trump it is the first Fair, Open, and Reciprocal Trade Deal, which earlier presidents never cared about. Read Also: ‘Ukraine ready for talks in any format’: Zelensky tells Trump, but demands Russia to show ‘intentions to end war’ Key Provisions of the Agreement The baseline tariff is likely to remain 10 per cent. The United States has provided some exemptions to UK-made cars by 10 per cent, with a cap of 100,000 vehicles annually. This is a significant relief compared to the 25% levy on top of the existing 2.5% tariff for most vehicle imports announced on May 3 on the US Imports. Additionally, Tariffs on UK steel and aluminium exports to the U.S. have been eliminated. The UK will lower its 19 per cent of the U.S. ethanol, facilitating up to $700 million in annual exports. The agreement plans to open up trade barriers to beef, U.S. beef and machinery, which will lead to an increase of $5 billion in export value. Read Also: Pak Defence Minister Khwaja Asif says 'can buy Chinese planes & use them' but China has no clue Both countries have also agreed to reduce non-tariff barriers and streamline customs procedures to expedite the movement of goods across "As part of this Deal, America will raise 6 BILLION DOLLARS in External Revenue from 10% Tariffs, 5 BILLION DOLLARS in new Export Opportunities for our Great Ranchers, Farmers, and Producers", read a post by President Trump on Truth social. Read Also: Indo-Pak War | US 'not going to get involved'; Turkey 'concerned': World reacts to Pakistan’s failed attack on India Political Context In Washington, the Trump administration is marketing this deal as a historic breakthrough. On the other hand, the announcements of the deal will be seen as a major relief for British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. He is navigating a tough situation with disappointing local election results. This deal will portray him as a solid negotiator. However, observers believe that the deal only reverses the tariff that was imposed during the Presidency of Donald Trump, and the UK had to make concessions to achieve the same. While the agreement addresses a few of the immediate trade concerns, many issues remain unresolved, including the UK's digital services tax and tariffs on pharmaceuticals and media. Both nations have indicated that better negotiations are necessary to achieve a comprehensive deal, and both of them remain steadfast in continuing their longstanding cooperation. Read Also: New Pope Elected: Robert Francis Prevost becomes first pope from US

UK and US strike limited trade deal to ease tariffs and boost bilateral commerce

Mason Mount starred as Manchester United roared back to crush Athletic Bilbao 4-1 on Thursday and 7-1 on aggregate, setting up a mouthwatering Europa League final against Tottenham.
United, 3-0 up after the first leg, fell behind to a superb strike from Mikel Jauregizar and looked nervy and untidy as they fought to find their feet at Old Trafford.
But a flurry of second-half substitutions -- including the entrance of Mount and Amad Diallo -- changed the complexion of the game completely and led to a United onslaught.
Mount, a peripheral figure since his move from Chelsea two years ago, produced an excellent turn and shot into the far corner to bring much-needed relief in the 72nd minute.
Casemiro scored a header from a Bruno Fernandes cross seven minutes later before Rasmus Hojlund converted from close range.
And there was still time for Mount to score a breathtaking second from near the halfway line in stoppage time, with goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala well out of position.
United, after a terrible Premier League season, have a chance to end the campaign on a high note with the showdown against Tottenham in Bilbao on May 21.
Spurs beat Norwegian champions Bodo/Glimt 5-1 on aggregate.
"I'm just worried about the next game, trying to not get any injuries for the final," United manager Ruben Amorim told TNT Sports. "If we don't win the final, it means nothing for us.
"We have to have a full squad (against Tottenham), stay in the game and have a bit of luck and we have to be clinical.
"It's quite similar for me and (Spurs boss) Ange (Postecoglou). It is a tough moment (for us both) and one of us is going to win. It's going to be a big final."
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pak-war-latest-news-we-are-proud-neeraj-chopra-reacts-on-indian-defence-forcesswift-reply-to-pakistani-attack-9049871" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indo-Pak War | 'We are proud,' Neeraj Chopra reacts on Indian defence forces' swift reply to Pakistani attack</a>
<h2>Nervy United</h2>
Fireworks crackled and red smoke filled an expectant Old Trafford following an impressive 3-0 win against 10-man Athletic in northern Spain last week.
But the air of anticipation was tinged by the knowledge that Amorim's United have shown a startling ability to implode during a horrendous Premier League season.
The United manager reverted to the team that started in the first leg, making eight changes following Sunday's 4-3 defeat against Brentford.
Dani Vivian was suspended after his red card last week and Athletic coach Ernesto Valverde was also hamstrung by the absence of brothers Nico and Inaki Williams, as well as top-scorer Oihan Sancet.
Athletic midfielder Alex Berenguer had a good early opportunity but his shot sailed over the bar and he also fired wide after a surging run from midfield.
But the visitors broke the deadlock in sensational style after half an hour to give themselves hope when Jauregizar picked his spot from outside the box and curled past Andre Onana after sloppy play by Harry Maguire.
United struggled for attacking rhythm but should have been level shortly before half-time.
The stadium held its breath as Alejandro Garnacho was put through by the lively Patrick Dorgu but his attempted dink over the goalkeeper went wide.
United offered little going forward in the early stages of the second half as Athletic made the running, forcing the home side to hack clear on multiple occasions.
Both teams made a triple change just after the hour mark and it transformed the home side.&nbsp;
The dangerous Diallo, recently returned from injury, was a menace on the right side of United's attack while Mount gave the side attacking focus and guile.
The injury-hit Mount, who has started just 15 games in all competitions since joining United in July 2023, produced a fine finish, turning sharply and finding the far corner with 18 minutes to go.
Casemiro nodded home as United's earlier nerves evaporated before Hojlund poked home and Mount produced an outrageous finish after Agirrezabala came out of his box and made a poor clearance.
United are 15th in the Premier League and on course for their worst season since they were relegated from the top flight in 1974 but Spurs are a place below them.
Winning Europe's second-tier club trophy crucially guarantees a place in the Champions League, which would boost United's chances of attracting top talent as Amorim attempts a huge rebuild.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Man Utd, 3-0 up after the first leg, fell behind to a superb strike from Mikel Jauregizar and looked nervy and untidy as they fought to find their feet at Old Trafford. World | Football | Sports

Mason Mount starred as Manchester United roared back to crush Athletic Bilbao 4-1 on Thursday and 7-1 on aggregate, setting up a mouthwatering Europa League final against Tottenham. United, 3-0 up after the first leg, fell behind to a superb strike from Mikel Jauregizar and looked nervy and untidy as they fought to find their feet at Old Trafford. But a flurry of second-half substitutions -- including the entrance of Mount and Amad Diallo -- changed the complexion of the game completely and led to a United onslaught. Mount, a peripheral figure since his move from Chelsea two years ago, produced an excellent turn and shot into the far corner to bring much-needed relief in the 72nd minute. Casemiro scored a header from a Bruno Fernandes cross seven minutes later before Rasmus Hojlund converted from close range. And there was still time for Mount to score a breathtaking second from near the halfway line in stoppage time, with goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala well out of position. United, after a terrible Premier League season, have a chance to end the campaign on a high note with the showdown against Tottenham in Bilbao on May 21. Spurs beat Norwegian champions Bodo/Glimt 5-1 on aggregate. "I'm just worried about the next game, trying to not get any injuries for the final," United manager Ruben Amorim told TNT Sports. "If we don't win the final, it means nothing for us. "We have to have a full squad (against Tottenham), stay in the game and have a bit of luck and we have to be clinical. "It's quite similar for me and (Spurs boss) Ange (Postecoglou). It is a tough moment (for us both) and one of us is going to win. It's going to be a big final." ALSO READ | Indo-Pak War | 'We are proud,' Neeraj Chopra reacts on Indian defence forces' swift reply to Pakistani attack Nervy United Fireworks crackled and red smoke filled an expectant Old Trafford following an impressive 3-0 win against 10-man Athletic in northern Spain last week. But the air of anticipation was tinged by the knowledge that Amorim's United have shown a startling ability to implode during a horrendous Premier League season. The United manager reverted to the team that started in the first leg, making eight changes following Sunday's 4-3 defeat against Brentford. Dani Vivian was suspended after his red card last week and Athletic coach Ernesto Valverde was also hamstrung by the absence of brothers Nico and Inaki Williams, as well as top-scorer Oihan Sancet. Athletic midfielder Alex Berenguer had a good early opportunity but his shot sailed over the bar and he also fired wide after a surging run from midfield. But the visitors broke the deadlock in sensational style after half an hour to give themselves hope when Jauregizar picked his spot from outside the box and curled past Andre Onana after sloppy play by Harry Maguire. United struggled for attacking rhythm but should have been level shortly before half-time. The stadium held its breath as Alejandro Garnacho was put through by the lively Patrick Dorgu but his attempted dink over the goalkeeper went wide. United offered little going forward in the early stages of the second half as Athletic made the running, forcing the home side to hack clear on multiple occasions. Both teams made a triple change just after the hour mark and it transformed the home side. The dangerous Diallo, recently returned from injury, was a menace on the right side of United's attack while Mount gave the side attacking focus and guile. The injury-hit Mount, who has started just 15 games in all competitions since joining United in July 2023, produced a fine finish, turning sharply and finding the far corner with 18 minutes to go. Casemiro nodded home as United's earlier nerves evaporated before Hojlund poked home and Mount produced an outrageous finish after Agirrezabala came out of his box and made a poor clearance. United are 15th in the Premier League and on course for their worst season since they were relegated from the top flight in 1974 but Spurs are a place below them. Winning Europe's second-tier club trophy crucially guarantees a place in the Champions League, which would boost United's chances of attracting top talent as Amorim attempts a huge rebuild. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Europa League: Man Utd crush Athletic Bilbao to set up Spurs final

A province in Canada started panicking when several people started being diagnosed with neurological symptoms without a clear cause. Neurologist Alier Marrero was the first doctor who notice them in his patients. Some of the cases were from as far back as 2013. In 2020, he informed Public Health New Brunswick officials about them, Gizmodo reported.
The next year, New Brunswick health officials wrote a memo to health care workers about the strange condition that was noticed in several residents. The cases were classified as a neurological syndrome of unknown cause (NSUC). The memo got leaked to the media, and the symptoms described included dementia, rapid weight loss, trouble moving, and hallucinations. Tests did not reveal a common culprit for the cluster.
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<h2>Study finds no common cause for mystery illness</h2>
Now, a study has revealed that there is nothing that links the neurological cases in New Brunswick. Published in JAMA Neurology, the study reviewed the cases of more than two dozen patients who had complained of the mystery illness. They failed to find a common trigger, such as a novel disease or environmental factor, for the shared symptoms.
After the memo became public, 48 supposed cases of NSUC were identified, and some of them passed away following the symptoms.
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A committee was set up to investigate the NSUC cases. It released its report in February 2022, which concluded no "common illness" likely existed. It added that the symptoms were caused by a variety of known neurological conditions. The New Brunswick government then closed the investigation.
<h2>Patients complaining of NSUC think someone wants to keep the illness under wraps</h2>
But Marrero and several other people believe that something bigger is at play here and that the cluster is real. People who think they have NSUC and others think that the problem is much bigger than reported and affects hundreds of more people. They have also accused local and federal governments of not letting some experts become part of the probe, ignoring some cases and that an environmental trigger is causing the problem.
Experts from the Moncton Interdisciplinary Neurodegenerative Diseases (MIND) Clinic in New Brunswick participated in the study. This is where the first patients were checked. Autopsy data from 11 people who died, and from 14 who were re-examined, were analysed.
Once again, no single underlying cause was found for the mystery illness. They added that all 25 cases were linked to known conditions, such as Alzheimer&rsquo;s disease, Parkinson&rsquo;s, and traumatic brain injury.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We have found no support for the existence of an undiagnosed mystery disease in New Brunswick,&rdquo; the authors wrote.
The researchers wrote that the affected patients and their families who think that "a potentially fatal mystery disease continues to affect them", should be offered reassurance and mental health support.
However, the matter refuses to die down and another probe has been opened by the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health in New Brunswick, the Vitalit&eacute; Health Network, and the Public Health Agency of Canada.

A mystery illness reported in New Brunswick is not real, one study and another investigation have found. Yet, people refuse to believe them. World Trending

A province in Canada started panicking when several people started being diagnosed with neurological symptoms without a clear cause. Neurologist Alier Marrero was the first doctor who notice them in his patients. Some of the cases were from as far back as 2013. In 2020, he informed Public Health New Brunswick officials about them, Gizmodo reported. The next year, New Brunswick health officials wrote a memo to health care workers about the strange condition that was noticed in several residents. The cases were classified as a neurological syndrome of unknown cause (NSUC). The memo got leaked to the media, and the symptoms described included dementia, rapid weight loss, trouble moving, and hallucinations. Tests did not reveal a common culprit for the cluster. Also Read: Six nurses of one hospital working on same floor develop brain tumours one after the other Study finds no common cause for mystery illness Now, a study has revealed that there is nothing that links the neurological cases in New Brunswick. Published in JAMA Neurology, the study reviewed the cases of more than two dozen patients who had complained of the mystery illness. They failed to find a common trigger, such as a novel disease or environmental factor, for the shared symptoms. After the memo became public, 48 supposed cases of NSUC were identified, and some of them passed away following the symptoms. Also Read: Vasectomy in exchange for benefits: Indonesian governor's absurd suggestion A committee was set up to investigate the NSUC cases. It released its report in February 2022, which concluded no "common illness" likely existed. It added that the symptoms were caused by a variety of known neurological conditions. The New Brunswick government then closed the investigation. Patients complaining of NSUC think someone wants to keep the illness under wraps But Marrero and several other people believe that something bigger is at play here and that the cluster is real. People who think they have NSUC and others think that the problem is much bigger than reported and affects hundreds of more people. They have also accused local and federal governments of not letting some experts become part of the probe, ignoring some cases and that an environmental trigger is causing the problem. Experts from the Moncton Interdisciplinary Neurodegenerative Diseases (MIND) Clinic in New Brunswick participated in the study. This is where the first patients were checked. Autopsy data from 11 people who died, and from 14 who were re-examined, were analysed. Once again, no single underlying cause was found for the mystery illness. They added that all 25 cases were linked to known conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s, and traumatic brain injury. “We have found no support for the existence of an undiagnosed mystery disease in New Brunswick,” the authors wrote. The researchers wrote that the affected patients and their families who think that "a potentially fatal mystery disease continues to affect them", should be offered reassurance and mental health support. However, the matter refuses to die down and another probe has been opened by the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health in New Brunswick, the Vitalité Health Network, and the Public Health Agency of Canada.

A mysterious illness stirred fear in Canada. A probe and a study found that it doesn't even exist

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was announced as the 267th pope of the Catholic Church, has frequently criticised the Trump administration and his policies, especially on immigration. Interestingly, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/trump-0">US President Donald Trump</a> was among the first ones to congratulate the new pontiff, saying it was a &ldquo;great honour&rdquo; for the country.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-the-newly-elected-pope-leo-xiv-first-american-pontiff-in-history-9049844">Who is the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, first American pontiff in history?</a>
Cardinal Prevost, named as Pope Leo XIV, has previously shared an article from his X account in 2015 criticising Trump&rsquo;s &ldquo;anti-immigrant rhetoric&rdquo; as dangerous.&nbsp;
In February, he wrote on X, &ldquo;JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesn't ask us to rank our love for others,&rdquo; while sharing a critical article on the vice president.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-pope-elected-robert-francis-prevost-becomes-first-pope-from-us-9049830">New Pope Elected: Robert Francis Prevost becomes first pope from US</a>
Last month, Pope Leo XIV reshared a post slamming Trump and Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele over the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia.
&ldquo;As Trump &amp; Bukele use Oval to Feds&rsquo; illicit deportation of a US resident, once an undoc-ed Salvadorean himself, now-DC Aux +Evelio asks, &lsquo;Do you not see the suffering? Is your conscience not disturbed? How can you stay quiet?&rsquo;&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/papal-conclave-2025-what-happens-inside-sistine-chapel-when-cardinals-vote-to-elect-new-pope-9046272">Papal Conclave 2025: What happens inside Sistine Chapel when cardinals vote to elect new pope</a>
<h2>Trump congratulates Pope Leo XIV</h2>
US President Donald Trump hailed the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff from the United States, saying it was a &ldquo;great honour&rdquo; for the country.
&ldquo;Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope. It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country,&rdquo; Trump posted on his Truth Social platform.
&ldquo;I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!&rdquo;
Watch | White smoke rises from the Sistine Chapel: Robert Francis Prevost becomes first pope from the US
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/0905_POPE_1230AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0905_POPE_1230AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=145&amp;tags=Pope Francis, World News, WION" title="White smoke rises from the Sistine Chapel: Robert Francis Prevost becomes first pope from the US" id="PL_iframe_block-mag1cw4f-unwmpc4r-7gw8ek0u"></iframe>

Cardinal Prevost, named as Pope Leo XIV, has previously shared an article from his X account in 2015 criticising Trump’s “anti-immigrant rhetoric” as dangerous. World

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was announced as the 267th pope of the Catholic Church, has frequently criticised the Trump administration and his policies, especially on immigration. Interestingly, US President Donald Trump was among the first ones to congratulate the new pontiff, saying it was a “great honour” for the country. Also read | Who is the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, first American pontiff in history? Cardinal Prevost, named as Pope Leo XIV, has previously shared an article from his X account in 2015 criticising Trump’s “anti-immigrant rhetoric” as dangerous. In February, he wrote on X, “JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesn't ask us to rank our love for others,” while sharing a critical article on the vice president. Also read | New Pope Elected: Robert Francis Prevost becomes first pope from US Last month, Pope Leo XIV reshared a post slamming Trump and Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele over the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia. “As Trump & Bukele use Oval to Feds’ illicit deportation of a US resident, once an undoc-ed Salvadorean himself, now-DC Aux +Evelio asks, ‘Do you not see the suffering? Is your conscience not disturbed? How can you stay quiet?’” Also read | Papal Conclave 2025: What happens inside Sistine Chapel when cardinals vote to elect new pope Trump congratulates Pope Leo XIV US President Donald Trump hailed the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff from the United States, saying it was a “great honour” for the country. “Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope. It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country,” Trump posted on his Truth Social platform. “I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!” Watch | White smoke rises from the Sistine Chapel: Robert Francis Prevost becomes first pope from the US

Did newly elected Pope criticise Trump administration? Here’s what his social media reveals

Following a &ldquo;good&rdquo; telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump on Thursday (May 8), Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that &ldquo;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ukraine">Ukraine</a>&nbsp;is ready to engage in talks in any format&rdquo;, but demanded that Russia must demonstrate the seriousness of its intentions to end the three-year-long war.
&ldquo;I had a good conversation with @POTUS. We congratulated our nations on Victory in Europe Day &mdash; the victory over Nazism,&rdquo; the Ukrainian leader said in an X post. &ldquo;We welcomed the Ukrainian Parliament&rsquo;s ratification of the Economic Partnership Agreement &mdash; a truly historic document that opens up many new opportunities for cooperation.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-confirms-the-full-and-comprehesive-deal-is-with-the-uk-further-details-to-be-revealed-9048595">Trump confirms the 'full and comprehesive' deal is with the UK, further details to be revealed</a>
Zelensky added that he discussed the need for continued peace efforts, including concrete steps that could be taken. He said that Trump asked him about the situation on the battlefield, and he provided &ldquo;a brief overview&rdquo;.
&ldquo;I also informed him that Ukraine is ready for a 30-day ceasefire, starting even today. We are waiting for Russia to support this proposal. I also reaffirmed that Ukraine is ready to engage in talks in any format. But for that, Russia must demonstrate the seriousness of its intentions to end the war, starting with a full unconditional ceasefire,&rdquo; Zelensky wrote on X. &ldquo;President Trump confirmed that he wants this war to end, is ready to help, and supports the need for a ceasefire. We agreed on our further contacts.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-holds-good-and-productive-phone-call-with-turkish-president-discuss-russia-ukraine-war-gaza-syria-9038408">Trump holds &lsquo;good and productive&rsquo; phone call with Turkish President, discuss Russia-Ukraine war, Gaza, Syria</a>
<h2>Trump calls for &lsquo;30-day unconditional ceasefire&rsquo;</h2>
Trump said that the talks with Russia and Ukraine are ongoing and the US has called for a &ldquo;30-day unconditional ceasefire&rdquo;.
&ldquo;Hopefully, an acceptable ceasefire will be observed, and both Countries will be held accountable for respecting the sanctity of these direct negotiations. If the ceasefire is not respected, the U.S. and its partners will impose further sanctions,&rdquo; the US president wrote on his Truth Social platform.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-she-hopes-nuclear-weapons-will-not-be-required-against-ukraine-video-9031926">Putin says he 'hopes' nuclear weapons 'will not be required' against Ukraine | VIDEO</a>
&ldquo;As President, I will stay committed to securing Peace between Russia and Ukraine, together with the Europeans, and a Lasting Peace it will be! This ceasefire must ultimately build toward a Peace Agreement. It can all be done very quickly, and I will be available on a moment&rsquo;s notice if my services are needed,&rdquo; he added.
Watch | Russia Victory Day parade: Putin's order for three-day truce with Ukraine enters force
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&nbsp;

Zelensky added that he discussed the need for continued peace efforts, including concrete steps that could be taken. He said that Trump asked him about the situation on the battlefield and he provided “a brief overview”. World

Following a “good” telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump on Thursday (May 8), Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that “Ukraine is ready to engage in talks in any format”, but demanded that Russia must demonstrate the seriousness of its intentions to end the three-year-long war. “I had a good conversation with @POTUS. We congratulated our nations on Victory in Europe Day — the victory over Nazism,” the Ukrainian leader said in an X post. “We welcomed the Ukrainian Parliament’s ratification of the Economic Partnership Agreement — a truly historic document that opens up many new opportunities for cooperation.” Also read | Trump confirms the 'full and comprehesive' deal is with the UK, further details to be revealed Zelensky added that he discussed the need for continued peace efforts, including concrete steps that could be taken. He said that Trump asked him about the situation on the battlefield, and he provided “a brief overview”. “I also informed him that Ukraine is ready for a 30-day ceasefire, starting even today. We are waiting for Russia to support this proposal. I also reaffirmed that Ukraine is ready to engage in talks in any format. But for that, Russia must demonstrate the seriousness of its intentions to end the war, starting with a full unconditional ceasefire,” Zelensky wrote on X. “President Trump confirmed that he wants this war to end, is ready to help, and supports the need for a ceasefire. We agreed on our further contacts.” Also read | Trump holds ‘good and productive’ phone call with Turkish President, discuss Russia-Ukraine war, Gaza, Syria Trump calls for ‘30-day unconditional ceasefire’ Trump said that the talks with Russia and Ukraine are ongoing and the US has called for a “30-day unconditional ceasefire”. “Hopefully, an acceptable ceasefire will be observed, and both Countries will be held accountable for respecting the sanctity of these direct negotiations. If the ceasefire is not respected, the U.S. and its partners will impose further sanctions,” the US president wrote on his Truth Social platform. Also read | Putin says he 'hopes' nuclear weapons 'will not be required' against Ukraine | VIDEO “As President, I will stay committed to securing Peace between Russia and Ukraine, together with the Europeans, and a Lasting Peace it will be! This ceasefire must ultimately build toward a Peace Agreement. It can all be done very quickly, and I will be available on a moment’s notice if my services are needed,” he added. Watch | Russia Victory Day parade: Putin's order for three-day truce with Ukraine enters force

‘Ukraine ready for talks in any format’: Zelensky tells Trump, but demands Russia to show ‘intentions to end war’

Robert Francis Prevost has been announced as the successor to Pope Francis on Thursday (May 8) after 133 cardinals voted in the Papal Conclave. He becomes the first American pope, taking the papal name Leo XIV. He is a moderate who was close to Pope Francis and spent years as a missionary in Peru.
<h2>Who is Pope Leo XIV?</h2>
Pope Leo XIV, 69, was made a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023 after being named to head the Dicastery for Bishops, one of the key departments of the Vatican. He has worked as a missionary in Peru.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-pope-elected-robert-francis-prevost-becomes-first-pope-from-us-9049830">New Pope Elected: Robert Francis Prevost becomes first pope from US</a> 
Given his pastoral bent, global view and ability to navigate the central bureaucracy, Pope Leo XIV had the highest chances among the group of US cardinals of being pope.
He has been called &ldquo;the least American of the Americans&rdquo; for his soft-spoken touch by Italian newspaper La Repubblica.
After the death of Pope Francis, Pope Leo XIV said there was &ldquo;still so much to do&rdquo; in the work of the Church.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/papal-conclave-2025-what-happens-inside-sistine-chapel-when-cardinals-vote-to-elect-new-pope-9046272">Papal Conclave 2025: What happens inside Sistine Chapel when cardinals vote to elect new pope</a>
&ldquo;We can&rsquo;t stop, we can&rsquo;t turn back. We have to see how the Holy Spirit wants the Church to be today and tomorrow, because today&rsquo;s world, in which the Church lives, is not the same as the world of ten or 20 years ago,&rdquo; he told Vatican News last month.
&ldquo;The message is always the same: proclaim Jesus Christ, proclaim the Gospel, but the way to reach today&rsquo;s people, young people, the poor, politicians, is different,&rdquo; he said.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/papal-conclave-2025-what-is-oath-of-secrecy-taken-by-each-cardinal-before-entering-sistine-chapel-to-elect-new-pope-9046199">Papal Conclave 2025: What is 'oath of secrecy' taken by each cardinal before entering Sistine Chapel to elect new pope</a>
<h2>Pope Leo XIV&rsquo;s career</h2>
Hailing from Chicago, Pope Leo XIV attended a minor seminary of the Order of St Augustine in St Louis as a novice. He completed a degree in mathematics from Philadelphia&rsquo;s Villanova University and received a master&rsquo;s degree in divinity from Chicago&rsquo;s Catholic Theological Union in 1982.&nbsp;
He finished a doctorate degree in canon law in Rome, then joined the Augustinians in Peru in 1985, where he served first of his decade-long missions in that country.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-pope-conclave-catholic-cardinals-papacy-vote-white-black-smoke-latest-pope-francis-successor-9046067">108 of 133 cardinals electing new pope were picked by Francis: Will the next pope follow his path?</a>
In 1999, he returned to Chicago and was made provincial prior of the Augustinians in the US Midwest. Later, he was made the prior general of the order throughout the world.
He returned to Peru in 2014 when Francis appointed him as apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Chiclayo. Nearly a decade later, he was appointed as head of the dicastery in 2023 after Canadian Cardinal Marc Ouellet was accused of sexually assaulting a woman and resigned for age reasons. Ouellet&rsquo;s case was later dropped by the Vatican for insufficient evidence.
Pope Leo XIV also serves as president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
Watch | White smoke rises from the Sistine Chapel: Robert Francis Prevost becomes first pope from the US
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Pope Leo XIV, 69, was made a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023 after being named to head the Dicastery for Bishops, one of the key departments of the Vatican. He has worked as a missionary in Peru.

Robert Francis Prevost has been announced as the successor to Pope Francis on Thursday (May 8) after 133 cardinals voted in the Papal Conclave. He becomes the first American pope, taking the papal name Leo XIV. He is a moderate who was close to Pope Francis and spent years as a missionary in Peru. Who is Pope Leo XIV? Pope Leo XIV, 69, was made a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023 after being named to head the Dicastery for Bishops, one of the key departments of the Vatican. He has worked as a missionary in Peru. Also read | New Pope Elected: Robert Francis Prevost becomes first pope from US Given his pastoral bent, global view and ability to navigate the central bureaucracy, Pope Leo XIV had the highest chances among the group of US cardinals of being pope. He has been called “the least American of the Americans” for his soft-spoken touch by Italian newspaper La Repubblica. After the death of Pope Francis, Pope Leo XIV said there was “still so much to do” in the work of the Church. Also read | Papal Conclave 2025: What happens inside Sistine Chapel when cardinals vote to elect new pope “We can’t stop, we can’t turn back. We have to see how the Holy Spirit wants the Church to be today and tomorrow, because today’s world, in which the Church lives, is not the same as the world of ten or 20 years ago,” he told Vatican News last month. “The message is always the same: proclaim Jesus Christ, proclaim the Gospel, but the way to reach today’s people, young people, the poor, politicians, is different,” he said. Also read | Papal Conclave 2025: What is 'oath of secrecy' taken by each cardinal before entering Sistine Chapel to elect new pope Pope Leo XIV’s career Hailing from Chicago, Pope Leo XIV attended a minor seminary of the Order of St Augustine in St Louis as a novice. He completed a degree in mathematics from Philadelphia’s Villanova University and received a master’s degree in divinity from Chicago’s Catholic Theological Union in 1982. He finished a doctorate degree in canon law in Rome, then joined the Augustinians in Peru in 1985, where he served first of his decade-long missions in that country. Also read | 108 of 133 cardinals electing new pope were picked by Francis: Will the next pope follow his path? In 1999, he returned to Chicago and was made provincial prior of the Augustinians in the US Midwest. Later, he was made the prior general of the order throughout the world. He returned to Peru in 2014 when Francis appointed him as apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Chiclayo. Nearly a decade later, he was appointed as head of the dicastery in 2023 after Canadian Cardinal Marc Ouellet was accused of sexually assaulting a woman and resigned for age reasons. Ouellet’s case was later dropped by the Vatican for insufficient evidence. Pope Leo XIV also serves as president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. Watch | White smoke rises from the Sistine Chapel: Robert Francis Prevost becomes first pope from the US

Who is the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, first American pontiff in history?

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