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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pope-francis">Pope Francis</a>, the first Latin American pope in the history of the Roman Catholic Church, died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed in a video statement on Monday (April 21). His death comes after a 12-year papacy.
Four&nbsp;Serie A matches scheduled to take place on Monday have been postponed to a later date following the death of Pope Francis, the Italian top flight said in a statement.&nbsp;Udinese's game at Torino, Fiorentina's visit to Cagliari, Genoa's match against Lazio and Juventus' trip to Parma will be rescheduled.
A number of Serie A clubs posted tributes to the Pope following his passing. "A loss that deeply saddens our city and the entire world," a Roma statement read.
<h2 class="ssrcss-1q0x1qg-Paragraph e1jhz7w10">'A passionate football supporter'</h2>
However, not many are aware that the 88-year-old was a known football fan and had supported Argentine side San Lorenzo since he was a child.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pope-francis-death-news-hollywood-debut-in-2018-film-cannes-premiere-8985652">Pope Francis made his big screen debut in this 2018 film which premiered at Cannes</a>
His successor enjoyed Mozart, but for Pope Francis, 'the most beautiful game' was football, which served as both an educational tool and a means to promote peace.&nbsp;
Pope Francis welcomed some of the greatest stars of football, from his Argentine compatriots <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> and the late <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/diego-maradona">Diego Maradona</a> to Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Gianluigi Buffon, at the Vatican, signing dozens of shirts and balls he got from all over the world.
<h2>'It was romantic football'</h2>
Recalling his childhood, he remembered playing on the streets of Buenos Aires with a ball made from rags.&nbsp;San Lorenzo club in Buenos Aires was the epicenter of his loyalty, as he would go watch the matches with his father and brothers, which turned him into an inseperable fanatic of football.
&ldquo;It was romantic football,&rdquo; he reminisced.&nbsp;
Even after becoming Pope, he continued being a member of the club and caused a minor uproar when he accepted a membership card from Boca Juniors, the club&rsquo;s rivals, as part of an educational partnership with the Vatican.
Along with one of the Swiss guards, Francis was updated on the club&rsquo;s progress. The guard would leave the results and the league tables on his desk.
Francis held giant masses in football stadiums during international visits, which is no different than seeing the sport as a religion.&nbsp;French Bishop Emmanuel Gobilliard, the Vatican Olympic delegate for Paris 2024, expressed that he comprehended the significance of football in someone's life. &nbsp;&nbsp;
&ldquo;It is a fact that regardless of the different social classes, whether you are a footballer, a football viewer, or a football fan, it does not matter, it is a way of life,&rdquo; he was quoted in a statement given to AFP. &nbsp;
Yet football was not just a passion, &ldquo;For Francis, a Jesuit born in Argentina, football was another means for promoting education and peace, especially when there is so much money, violence, and corruption involved in its administration.&rdquo; &nbsp;
&ldquo;Francis has called for a number of initiatives, as was the case in 2014 when the Olympic stadium in Rome hosted an interreligious match for peace,&rdquo; the article stated.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-papacy-showered-with-love-and-marred-by-controversy-8985584">Pope Francis' papacy showered with love and marred by controversy</a>
In 2019, Pope Francis said, &ldquo;Many say that football is the most beautiful game in the world. I think so too.&rdquo; "Reminding them of their social obligations is crucial,&rdquo; Francis said in a message directed toward the Italian and Argentinian national football teams back in 2013. He also cautioned against &lsquo;business&rsquo; football. &nbsp;
Gobillard states that in the same way as religion, football's goal is &lsquo;to put the whole in front of the individual.&rsquo;&rdquo;&nbsp;&ldquo;We serve a purpose far greater than ourselves, both individually and collectively.&rdquo;
The pontiff's love for the game inspired a scene in Netflix's hit film "The Two Popes", in which former pope Benedict XVI and then-cardinal Jorge Bergoglio watch the 2014 World Cup final between their two countries, Germany and Argentina.
It was pure fiction, as the soon-to-be Francis gave up watching television in 1990 -- the year the then West Germany beat Argentina in the World Cup final hosted by Italy -- while his predecessor preferred classical music and reading.&nbsp;
But he dedicated an entire chapter in his 2024 autobiography to Maradona, whose infamous "hand of God" goal helped Argentina beat England in their 1986 World Cup quarter-final clash.
"When, as pope, I received Maradona in the Vatican a few years ago... I asked him, jokingly, 'So, which is the guilty hand?'" he said in 2024.

Pope Francis News: Pope Francis welcomed some of greatest stars of football, from Lionel Messi, late Diego Maradona to Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Gianluigi Buffon, at the Vatican

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope in the history of the Roman Catholic Church, died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed in a video statement on Monday (April 21). His death comes after a 12-year papacy. Four Serie A matches scheduled to take place on Monday have been postponed to a later date following the death of Pope Francis, the Italian top flight said in a statement. Udinese's game at Torino, Fiorentina's visit to Cagliari, Genoa's match against Lazio and Juventus' trip to Parma will be rescheduled. A number of Serie A clubs posted tributes to the Pope following his passing. "A loss that deeply saddens our city and the entire world," a Roma statement read. 'A passionate football supporter' However, not many are aware that the 88-year-old was a known football fan and had supported Argentine side San Lorenzo since he was a child. Also Read: Pope Francis made his big screen debut in this 2018 film which premiered at Cannes His successor enjoyed Mozart, but for Pope Francis, 'the most beautiful game' was football, which served as both an educational tool and a means to promote peace. Pope Francis welcomed some of the greatest stars of football, from his Argentine compatriots Lionel Messi and the late Diego Maradona to Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Gianluigi Buffon, at the Vatican, signing dozens of shirts and balls he got from all over the world. 'It was romantic football' Recalling his childhood, he remembered playing on the streets of Buenos Aires with a ball made from rags. San Lorenzo club in Buenos Aires was the epicenter of his loyalty, as he would go watch the matches with his father and brothers, which turned him into an inseperable fanatic of football. “It was romantic football,” he reminisced. Even after becoming Pope, he continued being a member of the club and caused a minor uproar when he accepted a membership card from Boca Juniors, the club’s rivals, as part of an educational partnership with the Vatican. Along with one of the Swiss guards, Francis was updated on the club’s progress. The guard would leave the results and the league tables on his desk. Francis held giant masses in football stadiums during international visits, which is no different than seeing the sport as a religion. French Bishop Emmanuel Gobilliard, the Vatican Olympic delegate for Paris 2024, expressed that he comprehended the significance of football in someone's life. “It is a fact that regardless of the different social classes, whether you are a footballer, a football viewer, or a football fan, it does not matter, it is a way of life,” he was quoted in a statement given to AFP. Yet football was not just a passion, “For Francis, a Jesuit born in Argentina, football was another means for promoting education and peace, especially when there is so much money, violence, and corruption involved in its administration.” “Francis has called for a number of initiatives, as was the case in 2014 when the Olympic stadium in Rome hosted an interreligious match for peace,” the article stated. Also Read: Pope Francis' papacy showered with love and marred by controversy In 2019, Pope Francis said, “Many say that football is the most beautiful game in the world. I think so too.” "Reminding them of their social obligations is crucial,” Francis said in a message directed toward the Italian and Argentinian national football teams back in 2013. He also cautioned against ‘business’ football. Gobillard states that in the same way as religion, football's goal is ‘to put the whole in front of the individual.’” “We serve a purpose far greater than ourselves, both individually and collectively.” The pontiff's love for the game inspired a scene in Netflix's hit film "The Two Popes", in which former pope Benedict XVI and then-cardinal Jorge Bergoglio watch the 2014 World Cup final between their two countries, Germany and Argentina. It was pure fiction, as the soon-to-be Francis gave up watching television in 1990 -- the year the then West Germany beat Argentina in the World Cup final hosted by Italy -- while his predecessor preferred classical music and reading. But he dedicated an entire chapter in his 2024 autobiography to Maradona, whose infamous "hand of God" goal helped Argentina beat England in their 1986 World Cup quarter-final clash. "When, as pope, I received Maradona in the Vatican a few years ago... I asked him, jokingly, 'So, which is the guilty hand?'" he said in 2024.

Pope Francis and the beautiful game: A pontiff who found joy and faith in football

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pope-francis">Pope Francis</a> died on Monday (April 21), aged 88, a day after making a much hoped-for appearance at Saint Peter's Square on Easter Sunday, the Vatican said in a statement.
<div class="post-content">
"This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT) the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father," said Cardinal Kevin Farrell in the statement published by the Vatican on its Telegram channel.
It is a loss for many as the world mourns a spiritual icon. Global football followers, however, seem to be more concerned about one of the surprising legacies he leaves behind: His views on who the greatest footballer of all time really is.
<h2>'He was a man with a big heart'</h2>
An Argentinian to the core, and lifelong San Lorenzo de Buenos Aires fan, Pope Francis shocked his countrymen when he, in an interview, claimed Pele, the Brazilian football legend, to be the greatest footballer that ever lived, surpassing Argentina&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/diego-maradona">Diego Maradona</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>.
After Lionel Messi won his eighth <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ballon-d-or">Ballon d&rsquo;Or</a>, Italian TV channel Rai 1 journalist Gian Marco Chiocci asked the pope during an interview who he&rsquo;d rather have, Messi or Maradona. &ldquo;I would add a third one, Pel&eacute;,&rdquo; replied Pope Francis. &ldquo;They are the three that I have seen play.&rdquo;
&ldquo;Maradona was great as a player, but as a man, he failed,&rdquo; added Francis. &ldquo;The poor man slipped, with an entourage that praised him but didn&rsquo;t help him. He came to see me here during the first year of my pontificate. Then, unfortunately, he died.&rdquo;
The Pope commented on the difficult conditions in which many footballers and boxers find themselves in their last years, often in poverty and poor health. He called the situation &ldquo;very curious.&rdquo;
&ldquo;Messi is a gentleman, but for me, among these three, the greatest is Pel&eacute;,&rdquo; Pope Francis said. &ldquo;He was a man with a very big heart. I spoke with him, met him on a plane in Buenos Aires, and he was a man of great humanity.&rdquo; His answer surprised many, considering the heated footballing rivalry between Argentina and Brazil.
</div>
<ul class="blog-updates" id="live_blog_updates_8484772"></ul>

Pope Francis: The 88-year-old was football fan and had supported Argentine side San Lorenzo since he was a child. He would go watch matches with his father and brothers

Pope Francis died on Monday (April 21), aged 88, a day after making a much hoped-for appearance at Saint Peter's Square on Easter Sunday, the Vatican said in a statement. "This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT) the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father," said Cardinal Kevin Farrell in the statement published by the Vatican on its Telegram channel. It is a loss for many as the world mourns a spiritual icon. Global football followers, however, seem to be more concerned about one of the surprising legacies he leaves behind: His views on who the greatest footballer of all time really is. 'He was a man with a big heart' An Argentinian to the core, and lifelong San Lorenzo de Buenos Aires fan, Pope Francis shocked his countrymen when he, in an interview, claimed Pele, the Brazilian football legend, to be the greatest footballer that ever lived, surpassing Argentina’s Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi. After Lionel Messi won his eighth Ballon d’Or, Italian TV channel Rai 1 journalist Gian Marco Chiocci asked the pope during an interview who he’d rather have, Messi or Maradona. “I would add a third one, Pelé,” replied Pope Francis. “They are the three that I have seen play.” “Maradona was great as a player, but as a man, he failed,” added Francis. “The poor man slipped, with an entourage that praised him but didn’t help him. He came to see me here during the first year of my pontificate. Then, unfortunately, he died.” The Pope commented on the difficult conditions in which many footballers and boxers find themselves in their last years, often in poverty and poor health. He called the situation “very curious.” “Messi is a gentleman, but for me, among these three, the greatest is Pelé,” Pope Francis said. “He was a man with a very big heart. I spoke with him, met him on a plane in Buenos Aires, and he was a man of great humanity.” His answer surprised many, considering the heated footballing rivalry between Argentina and Brazil.

Pope Francis chose THIS footballer as his favourite. Hint: It's not Messi or Maradona

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pope-francis">Pope Francis</a>, the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State, died at the age of 88 on Monday (Apr 21). The pontiff spent about five weeks in hospital battling against pneumonia for five weeks, but was discharged on March 23 after his health improved.
The demise of the pontiff, who was the first Latin American pope in the history of the Roman Catholic Church, comes after a 12-year papacy.
Just a day earlier on Sunday (Apr 20), the Pope made a public appearance on the occasion of Easter, where 35,000 gathered in St. Peter&rsquo;s Square to hear his message. As per tradition, he delivered the &ldquo;Urbi et Orbi&rdquo; blessing, which means &ldquo;to the city and the world.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-dies-at-88-latin-americas-first-pontiff-leaves-behind-powerful-easter-message-8985074">Pope Francis dies at 88: Latin America&rsquo;s first pontiff leaves behind powerful Easter message</a>
Pope Francis&rsquo; last message was read aloud by Archbishop Diego Ravelli, in which he called for peace in war-torn regions like Gaza, Ukraine, Congo and Myanmar.
<h2>Who was Pope Francis?</h2>
Born in December 1936 in Buenos Aires, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the Jesuit Archbishop of Buenos Aires, was a prominent figure across the Americas, yet was known for his simplicity and deeply loved by his diocese.
Pope Francis was the first pope from South America and the first from the Jesuit order. He brought several reforms to the church and promoted unity between Catholics, non-Catholics and non-Christians.
The pontiff often said, &ldquo;My people are poor, and I am one of them.&rdquo; He lived in an apartment and cooked his own meals. Pope Francis believed that &ldquo;trampling upon a person&rsquo;s dignity is a serious sin&rdquo; and always advised his priests to show mercy and apostolic courage.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-am-i-to-judge-stance-on-lgbtq-surrogacy-among-most-contentious-moments-of-pope-francis-papacy-8985804">&lsquo;Who am I to judge&rsquo;: Stance on LGBTQ, surrogacy among most contentious moments of Pope Francis&rsquo; papacy</a>
He was born into a family of Italian immigrants&mdash;his father, Mario, was an accountant employed by the railways, while his mother, Regina Sivori, was a dedicated wife who raised him and his four siblings.
<h2>Pope Francis' journey of priesthood</h2>
A chemical technician, Pope Francis chose the path of priesthood and entered the Diocesan Seminary of Villa Devoto. In 1958, he joined the novitiate of the Society of Jesus.
He then turned to academics and studied humanities in Chile. After this, he returned to Argentina in 1963, where he completed a degree in philosophy. For the next three years, he taught literature and psychology while studying theology.
In December 1969, he was ordained a priest and took his final vows in the Jesuit order in 1973. In 1973, he was appointed Provincial of the Jesuits in Argentina, where he remained for the next six years.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-passes-away-at-88-pope-francis-and-the-beautiful-game-a-pontiff-who-found-joy-and-faith-in-football-8985544">Pope Francis and the beautiful game: A pontiff who found joy and faith in football</a>
A military coup happened in Argentina in 1976 when he was the head of the country&rsquo;s Jesuits, during which he helped several people hide from authorities and even assisted some to escape the country. However, he faced controversy for failing to protect two Jesuit priests who went missing but were later found alive after five months.
He resumed teaching in 1980 and went on to pursue theology in Germany in 1986. In 1992, he was appointed as the Auxiliary Bishop of Buenos Aires. He was raised to the Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998 and was declared a Cardinal in 2001.
<h2>Pope's advocacy of social causes</h2>
Pope Francis was an outspoken advocate for the poor and promoted the church&rsquo;s position in social matters with government officials.&nbsp;
He asked his followers not to come to Rome to celebrate his naming as Cardinal, but rather to offer to the poor on their journey during the economic crisis in Argentina in the late 1990s.
Watch | Pope Francis death: Final appearance on Easter Sunday before his death | Watch moment
<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/2404_WION_ORG_POP_FRANCIS_DIES_AT_88_WEB_NEW/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2404_WION_ORG_POP_FRANCIS_DIES_AT_88_WEB_NEW.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=99&amp;tags=Pope Francis, World News, WION" title="Pope Francis death: Final appearance on Easter Sunday before his death | Watch moment" id="PL_iframe_block-m9qzh9qw-xahz19oz-m51oems6"></iframe>
Despite gaining popularity in Latin America, rather than living in the archbishop&rsquo;s residence, Pope Francis lived in a simple downtown apartment and travels by public transportation or on foot.
In 2013, he was elected as the Supreme Pontiff and held the position until he passed away on Monday (Apr 21).

Pope Francis was the first pope from South America and the first from the Jesuit order. He brought several reforms to the church and promoted unity between Catholics, non-Catholics and non-Christians. World | Trending

Pope Francis, the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State, died at the age of 88 on Monday (Apr 21). The pontiff spent about five weeks in hospital battling against pneumonia for five weeks, but was discharged on March 23 after his health improved. The demise of the pontiff, who was the first Latin American pope in the history of the Roman Catholic Church, comes after a 12-year papacy. Just a day earlier on Sunday (Apr 20), the Pope made a public appearance on the occasion of Easter, where 35,000 gathered in St. Peter’s Square to hear his message. As per tradition, he delivered the “Urbi et Orbi” blessing, which means “to the city and the world.” Also read | Pope Francis dies at 88: Latin America’s first pontiff leaves behind powerful Easter message Pope Francis’ last message was read aloud by Archbishop Diego Ravelli, in which he called for peace in war-torn regions like Gaza, Ukraine, Congo and Myanmar. Who was Pope Francis? Born in December 1936 in Buenos Aires, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the Jesuit Archbishop of Buenos Aires, was a prominent figure across the Americas, yet was known for his simplicity and deeply loved by his diocese. Pope Francis was the first pope from South America and the first from the Jesuit order. He brought several reforms to the church and promoted unity between Catholics, non-Catholics and non-Christians. The pontiff often said, “My people are poor, and I am one of them.” He lived in an apartment and cooked his own meals. Pope Francis believed that “trampling upon a person’s dignity is a serious sin” and always advised his priests to show mercy and apostolic courage. Also read | ‘Who am I to judge’: Stance on LGBTQ, surrogacy among most contentious moments of Pope Francis’ papacy He was born into a family of Italian immigrants—his father, Mario, was an accountant employed by the railways, while his mother, Regina Sivori, was a dedicated wife who raised him and his four siblings. Pope Francis' journey of priesthood A chemical technician, Pope Francis chose the path of priesthood and entered the Diocesan Seminary of Villa Devoto. In 1958, he joined the novitiate of the Society of Jesus. He then turned to academics and studied humanities in Chile. After this, he returned to Argentina in 1963, where he completed a degree in philosophy. For the next three years, he taught literature and psychology while studying theology. In December 1969, he was ordained a priest and took his final vows in the Jesuit order in 1973. In 1973, he was appointed Provincial of the Jesuits in Argentina, where he remained for the next six years. Also read | Pope Francis and the beautiful game: A pontiff who found joy and faith in football A military coup happened in Argentina in 1976 when he was the head of the country’s Jesuits, during which he helped several people hide from authorities and even assisted some to escape the country. However, he faced controversy for failing to protect two Jesuit priests who went missing but were later found alive after five months. He resumed teaching in 1980 and went on to pursue theology in Germany in 1986. In 1992, he was appointed as the Auxiliary Bishop of Buenos Aires. He was raised to the Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998 and was declared a Cardinal in 2001. Pope's advocacy of social causes Pope Francis was an outspoken advocate for the poor and promoted the church’s position in social matters with government officials. He asked his followers not to come to Rome to celebrate his naming as Cardinal, but rather to offer to the poor on their journey during the economic crisis in Argentina in the late 1990s. Watch | Pope Francis death: Final appearance on Easter Sunday before his death | Watch moment Despite gaining popularity in Latin America, rather than living in the archbishop’s residence, Pope Francis lived in a simple downtown apartment and travels by public transportation or on foot. In 2013, he was elected as the Supreme Pontiff and held the position until he passed away on Monday (Apr 21).

Who was Pope Francis? Beloved pontiff passes away at 88

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the first Jesuit and Latin American pontiff and 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church, died on Easter Monday, leaving behind a multi-hued legacy, and will be remembered for ushering in a progressive era for the Vatican. Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to two Italian immigrants in 1936, he worked as a bouncer, a janitor, and a chemical technician in the food-processing industry before entering the seminary. He selected the name Francis, after St. Francis of Assisi, who he described as &ldquo;a man of poverty and of peace&rdquo; and chose to live in a simple downtown apartment instead of the archbishop&rsquo;s residence, and travelled by foot or public transport rather than chauffeured limousine. He also used a more colloquial language in communication, renouncing the usual papal pomp.&nbsp;
However, his pontificate was marked by significant divisions within the Church. His positions on topics such as LGBTQ+ rights, priestly celibacy, and the role of women in the Church faced resistance from conservative factions. Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-dies-at-88-latin-americas-first-pontiff-leaves-behind-powerful-easter-message-8985074">Pope Francis dies at 88: Latin America&rsquo;s first pontiff leaves behind powerful Easter message</a>
<h2>LGBTQ+ community policies</h2>
 A hallmark of Pope Francis&rsquo; pontificate was his openness to the LGBTQ+ community, as summarised in his famous quote, &ldquo;If a person is gay and seeks the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?&rdquo;&nbsp; But his openness was not so evident always and his refusal to accept Laurent Stefanini, a homosexual French diplomat, in the Vatican&rsquo;s Holy See led to a debate. In another statement that sparked doubts about his progressive stance, he said,. &ldquo;There is too much homosexuality in the Vatican.&rdquo;&nbsp; He allowed blessings for homosexual people but refused to sanction same-sex marriages within the Church.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-could-be-the-next-pontiff-after-pope-francis-heres-the-list-of-potential-successors-8737312" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Pope Francis dies at 88: Who could be the next pontiff? Here's the list of potential&nbsp;successors</a> In 2024, during a closed-door meeting with Italian bishops, the pope used a vulgar and derogatory term about gay men while reaffirming the Catholic Church&rsquo;s ban on gay priests, highlighting the apparent divergence in his pastoral outreach and personal views. He later apologised for using the homophobic term.
His stance drew criticism from conservatives who felt he was straying from traditional teachings.&nbsp; In December 2023, Pope Francis allowed Catholic priests to bless same-sex couples, provided the blessings are not part of regular Church rituals or liturgies.
<h2>Communion for divorced and remarried&nbsp;</h2>
 Pope Francis&rsquo; admission of the communion sacrament to divorced couples, historically disowned by the Church, was hailed as a great revolution.&nbsp; &ldquo;If there is no love anymore it does not deny the sacrament,&rdquo; stated Francis in 2019, admitting the possibility of divorce into the Christian faith. The move was hailed by progressives as a step towards greater mercy and inclusion but triggered opposition from conservatives who said it undermines the sanctity of marriage.
<h2>Conservative views on birth control, abortion and surrogacy&nbsp;</h2>
 Pope Francis expressed conservative views on other matters of sexual ethics and like his predecessors, he emphatically condemned birth control, abortion, in vitro fertilisation, and surrogacy, as they are seen to violate natural law. In his later years, the pope called pornography a &ldquo;scourge&rdquo; that constitutes a grave &ldquo;threat to public health&rdquo;, and said that &ldquo;the experience of sexuality is impoverished&rdquo; by contraception. In January 2024, he made headlines after describing surrogate motherhood as &ldquo;deplorable&rdquo; and calling for an international ban. Pope Francis described the practice as being a &ldquo;grave violation of the dignity of the woman and the child, based on the exploitation of situations of the mother&rsquo;s material needs&rdquo;.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-medical-team-wanted-to-end-his-treatment-to-let-him-die-in-peace-8890342" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">When Pope Francis&rsquo; medical team wanted to stop his treatment, let him &lsquo;die in peace&rsquo;</a>
<h2>Handling of sexual abuse scandals</h2>
 One of the greatest challenges for the Church during Francis&rsquo; papacy was the clerical sexual abuse crisis. Francis enforced mandatory reporting and protection of whistleblowers, but his actions were seen as insufficient. His initial defence of Chilean Bishop Juan Barros, accused of covering up abuse, led to public outcry and eventual apologies from the Vatican.
Months after his appointment in 2013, Pope Francis called on the Catholic Church to &ldquo;act decisively&rdquo; against paedophile priests. He said the Church must take measures to protect young people, help victims, and ensure the perpetrators are punished.&nbsp; He met sexual abuse victims and offered sincere apologies, but critics say he didn&rsquo;t do much, particularly in punishing and defrocking sexual offenders. He then made extensive changes in the Vatican&rsquo;s Code of Canon Law, the in-house legal system of the Catholic Church, addressing shortcomings in the handling of sexual abuse. It removed much of the discretion that allowed bishops and religious superiors to ignore or cover up abuse.
<h2>Role of women&nbsp;</h2>
 In November 2023, Pope Francis called on members of the International Theological Commission to &ldquo;demasculinise the Church&rdquo;, and said, &ldquo;Women have a different capacity for theological reflection than we men.&rdquo; Nevertheless, he supported a male-only priesthood.
Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-francis-death-pope-francis-has-died-the-vatican-camerlengo-announces-8985260" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Pope Francis death: Pope Francis has died, the Vatican Camerlengo announces</a>
<h2>Unafraid of breaking conventions</h2>
 Pope Francis was unafraid of breaking convention, and in December 2023, he revealed his plan to be buried in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, in honour of his devotion to the Virgin Mary. The Roman site is almost 5 kilometres from the Vatican. He will be the first pontiff to be buried in Santa Maria Maggiore since 1669, breaking the tradition of popes being laid to rest in the grottos beneath St Peter&rsquo;s Basilica in the Vatican.
&nbsp;

World: Pope Francis’ pontificate was marked by significant divisions within the Church, and his positions on topics such as LGBTQ+ rights, priestly celibacy, and the role of women in the Church faced resistance from conservative factions.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the first Jesuit and Latin American pontiff and 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church, died on Easter Monday, leaving behind a multi-hued legacy, and will be remembered for ushering in a progressive era for the Vatican. Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to two Italian immigrants in 1936, he worked as a bouncer, a janitor, and a chemical technician in the food-processing industry before entering the seminary. He selected the name Francis, after St. Francis of Assisi, who he described as “a man of poverty and of peace” and chose to live in a simple downtown apartment instead of the archbishop’s residence, and travelled by foot or public transport rather than chauffeured limousine. He also used a more colloquial language in communication, renouncing the usual papal pomp. However, his pontificate was marked by significant divisions within the Church. His positions on topics such as LGBTQ+ rights, priestly celibacy, and the role of women in the Church faced resistance from conservative factions. Also Read | Pope Francis dies at 88: Latin America’s first pontiff leaves behind powerful Easter message LGBTQ+ community policies A hallmark of Pope Francis’ pontificate was his openness to the LGBTQ+ community, as summarised in his famous quote, “If a person is gay and seeks the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?” But his openness was not so evident always and his refusal to accept Laurent Stefanini, a homosexual French diplomat, in the Vatican’s Holy See led to a debate. In another statement that sparked doubts about his progressive stance, he said,. “There is too much homosexuality in the Vatican.” He allowed blessings for homosexual people but refused to sanction same-sex marriages within the Church. Also read: Pope Francis dies at 88: Who could be the next pontiff? Here's the list of potential successors In 2024, during a closed-door meeting with Italian bishops, the pope used a vulgar and derogatory term about gay men while reaffirming the Catholic Church’s ban on gay priests, highlighting the apparent divergence in his pastoral outreach and personal views. He later apologised for using the homophobic term. His stance drew criticism from conservatives who felt he was straying from traditional teachings. In December 2023, Pope Francis allowed Catholic priests to bless same-sex couples, provided the blessings are not part of regular Church rituals or liturgies. Communion for divorced and remarried Pope Francis’ admission of the communion sacrament to divorced couples, historically disowned by the Church, was hailed as a great revolution. “If there is no love anymore it does not deny the sacrament,” stated Francis in 2019, admitting the possibility of divorce into the Christian faith. The move was hailed by progressives as a step towards greater mercy and inclusion but triggered opposition from conservatives who said it undermines the sanctity of marriage. Conservative views on birth control, abortion and surrogacy Pope Francis expressed conservative views on other matters of sexual ethics and like his predecessors, he emphatically condemned birth control, abortion, in vitro fertilisation, and surrogacy, as they are seen to violate natural law. In his later years, the pope called pornography a “scourge” that constitutes a grave “threat to public health”, and said that “the experience of sexuality is impoverished” by contraception. In January 2024, he made headlines after describing surrogate motherhood as “deplorable” and calling for an international ban. Pope Francis described the practice as being a “grave violation of the dignity of the woman and the child, based on the exploitation of situations of the mother’s material needs”. Also read: When Pope Francis’ medical team wanted to stop his treatment, let him ‘die in peace’ Handling of sexual abuse scandals One of the greatest challenges for the Church during Francis’ papacy was the clerical sexual abuse crisis. Francis enforced mandatory reporting and protection of whistleblowers, but his actions were seen as insufficient. His initial defence of Chilean Bishop Juan Barros, accused of covering up abuse, led to public outcry and eventual apologies from the Vatican. Months after his appointment in 2013, Pope Francis called on the Catholic Church to “act decisively” against paedophile priests. He said the Church must take measures to protect young people, help victims, and ensure the perpetrators are punished. He met sexual abuse victims and offered sincere apologies, but critics say he didn’t do much, particularly in punishing and defrocking sexual offenders. He then made extensive changes in the Vatican’s Code of Canon Law, the in-house legal system of the Catholic Church, addressing shortcomings in the handling of sexual abuse. It removed much of the discretion that allowed bishops and religious superiors to ignore or cover up abuse. Role of women In November 2023, Pope Francis called on members of the International Theological Commission to “demasculinise the Church”, and said, “Women have a different capacity for theological reflection than we men.” Nevertheless, he supported a male-only priesthood. Watch: Pope Francis death: Pope Francis has died, the Vatican Camerlengo announces Unafraid of breaking conventions Pope Francis was unafraid of breaking convention, and in December 2023, he revealed his plan to be buried in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, in honour of his devotion to the Virgin Mary. The Roman site is almost 5 kilometres from the Vatican. He will be the first pontiff to be buried in Santa Maria Maggiore since 1669, breaking the tradition of popes being laid to rest in the grottos beneath St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.

‘Who am I to judge’: Stance on LGBTQ, surrogacy among most contentious moments of Pope Francis’ papacy

The US is either slapping tariffs or deporting people; this has been a major agenda for Trump 2.0. The administration has been certain about deporting all immigrants, and in the quest to do that, it was earlier reported that an erroneous deportation took place. Kilmer Abrego-Garcia, a Maryland resident, was deported to El Salvador, after which a senator visited him on Friday (Apr 18) looking for ways to bring him back. And now, Trump says Abrego-Garcia is not 'innocent'.
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maryland-senator-van-hollen-meets-kilmar-abrego-garcia-in-el-salvador-8975936">Maryland Senator Van Hollen meets Kilmar &Aacute;brego Garc&iacute;a in El Salvador</a>
The president took to Truth Social, he wrote, "Radical lunatic democrats and their comrades in the fake news media are falsely making Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia out to be a very sweet and innocent person, which is a total, blatant, and dangerous lie."
He added, "Garcia has been found by two separate courts to be a member of the violent, killer gang MS-13, was in our country illegally, and is under a deportation order. It is despicable and unAmerican for liberals and the mainstream media to hate our country so much, and be obsessed with protecting criminals, instead of working to keep our border, streets, and families safe. Those lying to the American people on behalf of violent criminals have to be held responsible by the agencies and the courts. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!"
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/el-salvadors-garcia-healthy-in-first-photo-after-mistaken-deportation-by-trump-heres-the-curious-case-of-the-maryland-man-8975172">El Salvador's Garcia 'healthy' in first photo after 'mistaken' deportation by Trump. Here's the curious case of the Maryland man</a>
<h3>Why did the deportation take place?</h3>
Abrego-Garcia was deported in one of the three high-profile deportation flights to El Salvador in March. The administration said he was a member of the MS-13 gang, which is an international criminal group. In contrast, the judge, in his ruling, prohibited his removal from his home country.
Abrego-Garcia's lawyers have demanded his return to the United States. A complaint filed by his family mentions that his 5-year-old son and wife are both US citizens residing in Maryland. It also noted that he was driving with his son seated in the backseat when ICE officers stopped his car and handcuffed him.
However, the Trump administration refrained from bringing him back from El Salvador, saying they did not have the legal authority to expedite the process of return.
&nbsp;

The US is either slapping tariffs or deporting people; this has been a major agenda for Trump 2.0. In a quest to deport immigrants, an erroneous deportation took place. Trump says he is not innocent. World

The US is either slapping tariffs or deporting people; this has been a major agenda for Trump 2.0. The administration has been certain about deporting all immigrants, and in the quest to do that, it was earlier reported that an erroneous deportation took place. Kilmer Abrego-Garcia, a Maryland resident, was deported to El Salvador, after which a senator visited him on Friday (Apr 18) looking for ways to bring him back. And now, Trump says Abrego-Garcia is not 'innocent'. WATCH | Maryland Senator Van Hollen meets Kilmar Ábrego García in El Salvador The president took to Truth Social, he wrote, "Radical lunatic democrats and their comrades in the fake news media are falsely making Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia out to be a very sweet and innocent person, which is a total, blatant, and dangerous lie." He added, "Garcia has been found by two separate courts to be a member of the violent, killer gang MS-13, was in our country illegally, and is under a deportation order. It is despicable and unAmerican for liberals and the mainstream media to hate our country so much, and be obsessed with protecting criminals, instead of working to keep our border, streets, and families safe. Those lying to the American people on behalf of violent criminals have to be held responsible by the agencies and the courts. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!" Also read: El Salvador's Garcia 'healthy' in first photo after 'mistaken' deportation by Trump. Here's the curious case of the Maryland man Why did the deportation take place? Abrego-Garcia was deported in one of the three high-profile deportation flights to El Salvador in March. The administration said he was a member of the MS-13 gang, which is an international criminal group. In contrast, the judge, in his ruling, prohibited his removal from his home country. Abrego-Garcia's lawyers have demanded his return to the United States. A complaint filed by his family mentions that his 5-year-old son and wife are both US citizens residing in Maryland. It also noted that he was driving with his son seated in the backseat when ICE officers stopped his car and handcuffed him. However, the Trump administration refrained from bringing him back from El Salvador, saying they did not have the legal authority to expedite the process of return.

Not 'innocent': Trump administration's flip-flop deportation adds to American man's woes in El Salvador

Vatican's first Latin American pontiff, Pope Francis, died at 88. An announcement from the Vatican numbed the Christian community across the globe. Many of his followers had gathered to pray for the pontiff while his health was not in great shape and he was being treated in the hospital.
An announcement by Cardinal Kevin Farrell read: "Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God."
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-pope-francis-dies-at-88-at-his-residence-in-the-vaticans-casa-santa-marta-8985523">Breaking: Pope Francis dies at 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta</a>
Pope Francis' 12-year-long papacy was filled with reforms and global outreach, and with that came some controversies.
<h3>Sex scandal:</h3>
Vatican's former ambassador had demanded that the Pope step down in 2018. This came as he was disappointed with the way the pontiff handled the sexual misconduct that involved priests. He was accused of opposing reforms to curb clerical sexual abuse of children and vulnerable adults. This is also when nuns were forced to undergo abortion after an assault.
In the case of Chilean Bishop Juan Barros, the Pope was accused of covering up paedophilia accusations and following cases. His stance highlighted the contradictions. He was initially seen defending Barros, but later it was reversed after thorough investigations.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/quotes-pope-francis-19362025-his-most-inspiring-words-that-touched-the-world-8985479">Quotes | Pope Francis (1936&ndash;2025): His most inspiring words that touched the world</a>
<h3>Views on LGBTQIA+ rights:</h3>
His papacy led to opposition for his views on the LGBTQIA+ community and rights and the debate on priestly celibacy. Pope Francis also faced resistance from conservatives for his view on the role of women in the church.
His statements were sometimes seen as oscillating; the Pope once said, &ldquo;If a person is gay and seeks the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?&ldquo; This showed his liberal mindset. But then, on another occasion, he said, "There is too much homosexuality in the Vatican."&nbsp;
Laurent Stefanini, a homosexual French diplomat, was not granted permission to enter the Vatican&rsquo;s Holy See. His stance was ambiguous, as it confused many, for it lacked consistency. He approved of blessings for homosexual people but then refrained from sanctioning same-sex marriages within the church.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Vatican's first Latin American pontiff, Pope Francis, died at 88. An announcement from the Vatican numbed the Christian community across the globe. World

Vatican's first Latin American pontiff, Pope Francis, died at 88. An announcement from the Vatican numbed the Christian community across the globe. Many of his followers had gathered to pray for the pontiff while his health was not in great shape and he was being treated in the hospital. An announcement by Cardinal Kevin Farrell read: "Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God." WATCH | Breaking: Pope Francis dies at 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta Pope Francis' 12-year-long papacy was filled with reforms and global outreach, and with that came some controversies. Sex scandal: Vatican's former ambassador had demanded that the Pope step down in 2018. This came as he was disappointed with the way the pontiff handled the sexual misconduct that involved priests. He was accused of opposing reforms to curb clerical sexual abuse of children and vulnerable adults. This is also when nuns were forced to undergo abortion after an assault. In the case of Chilean Bishop Juan Barros, the Pope was accused of covering up paedophilia accusations and following cases. His stance highlighted the contradictions. He was initially seen defending Barros, but later it was reversed after thorough investigations. Also read: Quotes | Pope Francis (1936–2025): His most inspiring words that touched the world Views on LGBTQIA+ rights: His papacy led to opposition for his views on the LGBTQIA+ community and rights and the debate on priestly celibacy. Pope Francis also faced resistance from conservatives for his view on the role of women in the church. His statements were sometimes seen as oscillating; the Pope once said, “If a person is gay and seeks the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?“ This showed his liberal mindset. But then, on another occasion, he said, "There is too much homosexuality in the Vatican." Laurent Stefanini, a homosexual French diplomat, was not granted permission to enter the Vatican’s Holy See. His stance was ambiguous, as it confused many, for it lacked consistency. He approved of blessings for homosexual people but then refrained from sanctioning same-sex marriages within the church.

Pope Francis' papacy showered with love and marred by controversy

Pope Francis dies at 88 - Black Smoke White Smoke tradition to select new Pope: Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, the Vatican announced on Monday (Apr 21). Now the world's attention will move to the election and the announcement of the next Pope. This process is steeped in tradition, and the most intriguing and anticipated part of it is the emergence of smoke from the Sistine chapel that indicates whether the final decision has been made on the next pontiff of the Roman Catholic church.
But when and why did the smoke practice arise, and what is the chemical process to create separate colours - black and white- for the smoke? Here is a quick explainer.
<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/2104_WION_POPE_BREAKING_130PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2104_WION_POPE_BREAKING_130PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=542&amp;tags=Pope Francis, World News, WION" title="Breaking | Pope Francis passes away at 88: Tributes pour in from around the world" id="PL_iframe_block-m9quvtty-1ecauce3-ac18re83"></iframe>
<h2>Fumata, the tradition of smoke signals to announce the new pope</h2>
Fumata, the name of the tradition of using smoke signals to confirm that the Roman Catholic church cardinal conclave has reached a conclusion on the next Pope, is a centuries-old practice.
It is both about spiritual symbolism and practicality. The pope is elected by the conclave in a secret voting process.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-says-he-escaped-two-attempts-on-his-life-during-2021-iraq-visit-784750">When Pope Francis escaped two attempts on his life during 2021 Iraq visit</a>
In order to ensure secrecy, every ballot will have to be burned.
And 'fumata nera', or black smoke, means the voting has been inconclusive.&nbsp;White smoke, or 'fumata bianca', means a pope has been successfully elected.
<h2>When did the smoke signal practice start for announcing the new Pope?</h2>
It is not clear exactly when the smoke signal practice started, but it is thought to have begun sometime in the late medieval and early modern period.
It was formalised as a practice in the 19th century, as per Catholic church historians.
The word 'conclave', which elects the pope, has&nbsp;Latin origin, and means 'with a key'.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-medical-team-wanted-to-end-his-treatment-to-let-him-die-in-peace-8890342">When Pope Francis&rsquo; medical team wanted to stop his treatment, let him &lsquo;die in peace&rsquo;</a>
This is the secretive gathering of cardinals to elect the pope.
The conclave was established by&nbsp; Pope Gregory X in 1274.
Before that, conclaves did not share the information with the public on the election of the new pope.&nbsp;
Believers used to gather outside the Sistine Chapel to know about the next pope, and smoke was used as a means to communicate what was going on with the cardinal conclave's selection process.
<h2>How is black smoke and white smoke created in announcing new Pope election? The chemical process</h2>
In the olden days, the white smoke was created by burning the ballots on dry straw, and the black smoke was created using wet straw.
In the 20th century, chemical processes were introduced.
Additives were introduced in 1963 so that the smoke signals are clear and distinct.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/beacon-of-compassion-pm-modi-grieves-pope-franciss-death-8985301">'Beacon of compassion': PM Modi grieves Pope Francis' death</a>
These days, the ballots are first buried in a stove, and the desired colour is created through specific chemical compounds. Potassium perchlorate and anthracene are added to create black smoke.
Potassium chlorate, lactose, and rosin are used for creating white smoke.
An electronically controlled, second stove with chemical cartridges was introduced in 2005 in order to avoid ambiguity.
<h2>Confusion over smoke colours to announce new Pope</h2>
The new technologies are being used for the smoke signals in view of the confusion in the past. At the 1958 conclave, the smoke colour was not clear, leading to uncertainty among the faithful.
In 2005, the smoke was reported to be greyish in colour.
Since then, the church bells in St.&nbsp;Peter's Basilica also toll as an additional signal to confirm the selection of the pope.
When Pope Francis was elected in 2013, the white smoke was clear and distinct.The bells at St Peter&rsquo;s rang out for further confirmation at the time.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/when-hollywood-star-mark-walhlberg-had-to-seek-apology-from-pope-francis-for-this-film-8985304">When Hollywood star Mark Walhlberg had to seek apology from Pope Francis for this film</a>
Once the 'fumata' process confirms that a new pope has been elected, millions of Roman Catholicscs rejoice, with the ringing of church bells and celebrations across the world.

Pope Francis died at 88. Selecting a new Pope will begin soon, with its unique smoke signal tradition capping the event. what is the smoke signal? World | Trending

Pope Francis dies at 88 - Black Smoke White Smoke tradition to select new Pope: Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, the Vatican announced on Monday (Apr 21). Now the world's attention will move to the election and the announcement of the next Pope. This process is steeped in tradition, and the most intriguing and anticipated part of it is the emergence of smoke from the Sistine chapel that indicates whether the final decision has been made on the next pontiff of the Roman Catholic church. But when and why did the smoke practice arise, and what is the chemical process to create separate colours - black and white- for the smoke? Here is a quick explainer. Fumata, the tradition of smoke signals to announce the new pope Fumata, the name of the tradition of using smoke signals to confirm that the Roman Catholic church cardinal conclave has reached a conclusion on the next Pope, is a centuries-old practice. It is both about spiritual symbolism and practicality. The pope is elected by the conclave in a secret voting process. When Pope Francis escaped two attempts on his life during 2021 Iraq visit In order to ensure secrecy, every ballot will have to be burned. And 'fumata nera', or black smoke, means the voting has been inconclusive. White smoke, or 'fumata bianca', means a pope has been successfully elected. When did the smoke signal practice start for announcing the new Pope? It is not clear exactly when the smoke signal practice started, but it is thought to have begun sometime in the late medieval and early modern period. It was formalised as a practice in the 19th century, as per Catholic church historians. The word 'conclave', which elects the pope, has Latin origin, and means 'with a key'. When Pope Francis’ medical team wanted to stop his treatment, let him ‘die in peace’ This is the secretive gathering of cardinals to elect the pope. The conclave was established by Pope Gregory X in 1274. Before that, conclaves did not share the information with the public on the election of the new pope. Believers used to gather outside the Sistine Chapel to know about the next pope, and smoke was used as a means to communicate what was going on with the cardinal conclave's selection process. How is black smoke and white smoke created in announcing new Pope election? The chemical process In the olden days, the white smoke was created by burning the ballots on dry straw, and the black smoke was created using wet straw. In the 20th century, chemical processes were introduced. Additives were introduced in 1963 so that the smoke signals are clear and distinct. 'Beacon of compassion': PM Modi grieves Pope Francis' death These days, the ballots are first buried in a stove, and the desired colour is created through specific chemical compounds. Potassium perchlorate and anthracene are added to create black smoke. Potassium chlorate, lactose, and rosin are used for creating white smoke. An electronically controlled, second stove with chemical cartridges was introduced in 2005 in order to avoid ambiguity. Confusion over smoke colours to announce new Pope The new technologies are being used for the smoke signals in view of the confusion in the past. At the 1958 conclave, the smoke colour was not clear, leading to uncertainty among the faithful. In 2005, the smoke was reported to be greyish in colour. Since then, the church bells in St. Peter's Basilica also toll as an additional signal to confirm the selection of the pope. When Pope Francis was elected in 2013, the white smoke was clear and distinct.The bells at St Peter’s rang out for further confirmation at the time. When Hollywood star Mark Walhlberg had to seek apology from Pope Francis for this film Once the 'fumata' process confirms that a new pope has been elected, millions of Roman Catholicscs rejoice, with the ringing of church bells and celebrations across the world.

Black smoke, white smoke: How a new Pope will be selected after Pope Francis' death aged 88 - history, process and Roman Catholic tradition

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff in the history of the Roman Catholic Church, has died aged 88, the Vatican confirmed in a video statement on Monday.
He had been battling several health issues over his 12-year papacy, but surprised many with a public appearance just a day before his passing.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-could-be-the-next-pontiff-after-pope-francis-heres-the-list-of-potential-successors-8737312" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Pope Francis dies at 88: Who could be the next pontiff? Here's the list of potential&nbsp;successors</a>
<h2>Final appearance at St. Peter&rsquo;s Square</h2>
On Sunday, Pope Francis greeted more than 35,000 worshippers in St. Peter&rsquo;s Square, making his way through the crowd in the popemobile. It was his most significant public appearance since recovering from a serious case of double pneumonia.
From the loggia balcony of St. Peter&rsquo;s Basilica, he declared, &ldquo;Brothers and sisters, happy Easter!&rdquo;
Though the Easter Mass was led by Cardinal Angelo Comastri, Pope Francis took part in the traditional "Urbi et Orbi" blessing, Latin for "to the city and the world," which was read aloud by Archbishop Diego Ravelli while Francis remained seated in his wheelchair.
<h2>Francis&rsquo; final message</h2>
In his last address, the pope turned his focus to major global issues. He spoke of the rise of antisemitism and condemned the violence in Gaza, calling for peace and a ceasefire.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-medical-team-wanted-to-end-his-treatment-to-let-him-die-in-peace-8890342" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">When Pope Francis&rsquo; medical team wanted to stop his treatment, let him &lsquo;die in peace&rsquo;</a>
&ldquo;I think of the people of Gaza, and its Christian community in particular, where the terrible conflict continues to cause death and destruction and to create a dramatic and deplorable humanitarian situation,&rdquo; said the message.
Francis also emphasised the importance of religious and individual freedoms, &ldquo;There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression and respect for the views of others.&rdquo;
Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-francis-death-pope-francis-has-died-the-vatican-camerlengo-announces-8985260" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Pope Francis death: Pope Francis has died, the Vatican Camerlengo announces</a>
<h2>Pope&rsquo;s last journey through the crowd</h2>
After delivering the blessing, Pope Francis was driven around St. Peter&rsquo;s Square in the open-top popemobile, waving to the faithful. Around 300 cardinals, bishops and priests were present for the Easter Mass, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

World: In his last address, the pope turned his focus to major global issues. He spoke of the rise of antisemitism and condemned the violence in Gaza, calling for peace and a ceasefire.

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff in the history of the Roman Catholic Church, has died aged 88, the Vatican confirmed in a video statement on Monday. He had been battling several health issues over his 12-year papacy, but surprised many with a public appearance just a day before his passing. Also read: Pope Francis dies at 88: Who could be the next pontiff? Here's the list of potential successors Final appearance at St. Peter’s Square On Sunday, Pope Francis greeted more than 35,000 worshippers in St. Peter’s Square, making his way through the crowd in the popemobile. It was his most significant public appearance since recovering from a serious case of double pneumonia. From the loggia balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, he declared, “Brothers and sisters, happy Easter!” Though the Easter Mass was led by Cardinal Angelo Comastri, Pope Francis took part in the traditional "Urbi et Orbi" blessing, Latin for "to the city and the world," which was read aloud by Archbishop Diego Ravelli while Francis remained seated in his wheelchair. Francis’ final message In his last address, the pope turned his focus to major global issues. He spoke of the rise of antisemitism and condemned the violence in Gaza, calling for peace and a ceasefire. Also read: When Pope Francis’ medical team wanted to stop his treatment, let him ‘die in peace’ “I think of the people of Gaza, and its Christian community in particular, where the terrible conflict continues to cause death and destruction and to create a dramatic and deplorable humanitarian situation,” said the message. Francis also emphasised the importance of religious and individual freedoms, “There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression and respect for the views of others.” Watch: Pope Francis death: Pope Francis has died, the Vatican Camerlengo announces Pope’s last journey through the crowd After delivering the blessing, Pope Francis was driven around St. Peter’s Square in the open-top popemobile, waving to the faithful. Around 300 cardinals, bishops and priests were present for the Easter Mass, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

‘No peace without freedom’: Pope Francis’ final message called for Gaza ceasefire | Read his last address

Pope Francis' medical team revealed that his health condition had deteriorated to a critical point, prompting consideration of withholding further treatment to allow for a peaceful passing.
Francis' medical team said that the pontiff almost choked on his vomit on February 28, when he suffered a respiratory crisis.
&ldquo;There was a real risk he might not make it,&rdquo; Sergio Alfieri, a doctor at Rome's Gemelli hospital, told news agency Reuters.
The 88-year-old had made his first public appearance on March 23 from the hospital balcony before being discharged to bless the crowd since being admitted on February 14.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Thank you, everyone,&rdquo; he said into a microphone while sitting in a wheelchair, waving to hundreds gathered to see him and giving a thumbs-up sign.
&ldquo;I can see that woman with yellow flowers, well done,&rdquo; Francis said, smiling to the joyed crowd in his brief appearance.&nbsp;
Francis was discharged minutes after his appearance and was seen leaving the hospital in a car. He was seen wearing a cannula, a tube tucked into his nostrils to deliver oxygen. He has reached the Vatican to convalesce after the hospital stay.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-funeral-being-rehearsed-as-swiss-guard-prepare-for-pontiffs-passing-8738506">Also read: Pope Francis' funeral &lsquo;being rehearsed&rsquo; as Swiss Guard 'prepare'; Italy PM Meloni visits pontiff: Reports</a>
<h2>Pope Francis had 'two very critical episodes'</h2>
Dr Alfieri, who was one of the physicians in charge of caring for the pontiff, said that the 88-year-old had &ldquo;two very critical episodes&rdquo; during which his &ldquo;life was in danger, &rdquo; according to the BBC.
He said that Francis was never ventilated and that he always stayed conscious and tried to engage.
&ldquo;We had to choose if we would stop there and let him go, or to go forward and push it with all the drugs and therapies possible, running the highest risk of damaging his other organs,&rdquo; Alfieri said in an interview with Italy's Corriere della Sera.
&ldquo;In the end, we took this path,&rdquo; the doctor added.

World news: Pope Francis died on Monday, aged 88, a day after making a much-hoped-for appearance at Saint Peter's Square on Easter Sunday, the Vatican said in a statement.

Pope Francis' medical team revealed that his health condition had deteriorated to a critical point, prompting consideration of withholding further treatment to allow for a peaceful passing. Francis' medical team said that the pontiff almost choked on his vomit on February 28, when he suffered a respiratory crisis. “There was a real risk he might not make it,” Sergio Alfieri, a doctor at Rome's Gemelli hospital, told news agency Reuters. The 88-year-old had made his first public appearance on March 23 from the hospital balcony before being discharged to bless the crowd since being admitted on February 14. “Thank you, everyone,” he said into a microphone while sitting in a wheelchair, waving to hundreds gathered to see him and giving a thumbs-up sign. “I can see that woman with yellow flowers, well done,” Francis said, smiling to the joyed crowd in his brief appearance. Francis was discharged minutes after his appearance and was seen leaving the hospital in a car. He was seen wearing a cannula, a tube tucked into his nostrils to deliver oxygen. He has reached the Vatican to convalesce after the hospital stay. Also read: Pope Francis' funeral ‘being rehearsed’ as Swiss Guard 'prepare'; Italy PM Meloni visits pontiff: Reports Pope Francis had 'two very critical episodes' Dr Alfieri, who was one of the physicians in charge of caring for the pontiff, said that the 88-year-old had “two very critical episodes” during which his “life was in danger, ” according to the BBC. He said that Francis was never ventilated and that he always stayed conscious and tried to engage. “We had to choose if we would stop there and let him go, or to go forward and push it with all the drugs and therapies possible, running the highest risk of damaging his other organs,” Alfieri said in an interview with Italy's Corriere della Sera. “In the end, we took this path,” the doctor added.

When Pope Francis’ medical team wanted to stop his treatment, let him ‘die in peace’

Pope Francis died at the age of 88 on Monday (April 21). The Vatican confirmed in a video statement on Monday (April 21). His death comes after a 12-year papacy. 
In January, Pope Francis had claimed that he escaped two attempts on his life during his historic visit to Iraq in 2021. He made this claim in his autobiography.&nbsp;
On Tuesday (Dec 17), Italian media published an excerpt from the autobiography titled "Hope" which talked about Pope Francis being targeted. The autobiography is due to be released on January 14.&nbsp;
<h2>The attempts on Pope's life</h2>
Pope Francis, who turned 88 on Tuesday, said that during his visit to Iraq, "A woman packed with explosives, a young suicide bomber, was heading towards Mosul to blow herself up during the papal visit."
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-for-the-first-time-uses-genocide-for-israels-actions-in-gaza-calls-for-investigation-776996">Pope Francis, for the first time, labels Israel's actions in Gaza as 'genocide'; calls for investigation</a>
"And a van had also set off at great speed with the same intention," he added. According to Italian media, two attackers were intercepted and killed by the Iraqi police.
Pope's historic visit to Iraq in March 2021 lasted for three days. At that time, this was&nbsp;Francis's first trip in 15 months and took place in the middle of the Covid pandemic.
<h2>'Almost everyone advised me against Iraq visit'</h2>
The excerpt from the pope's biography further revealed that "almost everyone advised me" against the visit to Iraq, "but I wanted to get to the bottom of things. I felt I had to do it."
Also watch | Pope elevates 21 new cardinals
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe width="560" height="350" style="width: 100%; max-width: 560px;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" autoplay="autoplay" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/08/0812_POPE_3PM-1733656208-00000003.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0812_POPE_3PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=98&amp;tags=Pope Francis,cardinals,Catholic Church"></iframe></div>
During his trips abroad, the pope's security is taken care of by the Pontifical Swiss Guard and the Vatican Gendarmerie, in collaboration with local law enforcement.
(With inputs from agencies)

During his trips abroad, the pope's security is taken care of by the Pontifical Swiss Guard and the Vatican Gendarmerie, in collaboration with local law enforcement.

Pope Francis died at the age of 88 on Monday (April 21). The Vatican confirmed in a video statement on Monday (April 21). His death comes after a 12-year papacy. In January, Pope Francis had claimed that he escaped two attempts on his life during his historic visit to Iraq in 2021. He made this claim in his autobiography. On Tuesday (Dec 17), Italian media published an excerpt from the autobiography titled "Hope" which talked about Pope Francis being targeted. The autobiography is due to be released on January 14. The attempts on Pope's life Pope Francis, who turned 88 on Tuesday, said that during his visit to Iraq, "A woman packed with explosives, a young suicide bomber, was heading towards Mosul to blow herself up during the papal visit." Also read | Pope Francis, for the first time, labels Israel's actions in Gaza as 'genocide'; calls for investigation "And a van had also set off at great speed with the same intention," he added. According to Italian media, two attackers were intercepted and killed by the Iraqi police. Pope's historic visit to Iraq in March 2021 lasted for three days. At that time, this was Francis's first trip in 15 months and took place in the middle of the Covid pandemic. 'Almost everyone advised me against Iraq visit' The excerpt from the pope's biography further revealed that "almost everyone advised me" against the visit to Iraq, "but I wanted to get to the bottom of things. I felt I had to do it." Also watch | Pope elevates 21 new cardinals During his trips abroad, the pope's security is taken care of by the Pontifical Swiss Guard and the Vatican Gendarmerie, in collaboration with local law enforcement. (With inputs from agencies)

When Pope Francis escaped two attempts on his life during 2021 Iraq visit

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope in the history of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed in a video statement on Monday (April 21). His death comes after a 12-year papacy.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-says-pope-francis-suffering-from-pneumonia-in-both-lungs-8734267">Pope&nbsp;Francis suffering from 'bilateral pneumonia', several events cancelled</a>
<h2>How is a new Pope chosen?</h2>
Any Roman Catholic man is technically eligible to become pope, but in practice, the role has always been filled by a cardinal. Currently, there are 253 cardinals worldwide, but only 138 are eligible to vote in the next conclave, as those over 80 years old are excluded.
In December last year, Pope Francis raised the maximum number of cardinal electors from 120 to 138, overriding a rule established by Pope Paul VI.
With Pope Francis' health declining, attention has turned to potential successors. Here are some of the leading candidates based on public reports.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/popes-condition-complex-hospital-stay-extended-vatican-8731563">Pope's condition 'complex', hospital stay extended: Vatican</a>
<h2>The leading candidates for the Papacy</h2>
<h3>Cardinal Pietro Parolin (70, Italy)</h3>
Parolin, the Vatican&rsquo;s Secretary of State, has worked closely with Pope Francis for over a decade and is a strong contender. His background in Vatican diplomacy, with experience in Nigeria and Mexico, has shaped his moderate approach to Church leadership. Parolin was promoted to cardinal in 2014 and is widely viewed as a continuation of Francis&rsquo; legacy.
<h3>Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu (65, Democratic Republic of the Congo)</h3>
As President of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar, Besungu is a significant voice in African Catholicism. He made headlines after rejecting the Fiducia Supplicans doctrine, which allowed priests to bless unmarried and same-sex couples. Despite the doctrine being approved by Pope Francis, Besungu successfully obtained permission to block it in Africa. If elected, he would represent a shift towards conservatism. Pope Francis appointed him as a cardinal in 2019.
<h3>Cardinal Wim Eijk (71, Netherlands)</h3>
A former medical doctor, Eijk is regarded as one of the most conservative candidates. He co-authored Eleven Cardinals Speak on Marriage and the Family, which opposed Pope Francis' more lenient stance on remarriage. Eijk also criticised the pope&rsquo;s handling of a German proposal to allow Protestants to receive the Eucharist. Pope Benedict XVI made him a cardinal in 2012.
<h3>Cardinal Peter Erdo (72, Hungary)</h3>
Erdo, a former president of the Council of Bishops Conferences of Europe, is a traditionalist who upholds strict Catholic doctrine. He has opposed allowing divorced and remarried Catholics to receive Holy Communion and has taken a hardline stance against accepting refugees in Europe, likening it to human trafficking. He was named a cardinal in 2003 by Pope John Paul II.
<h3>Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (67, Philippines)</h3>
Tagle is often described as the "Asian Pope Francis" due to his progressive views. He has spoken out against the Church&rsquo;s treatment of LGBT individuals, divorced Catholics, and single mothers, arguing that the Church&rsquo;s rigidity has hindered evangelisation efforts. If elected, he would be the first Asian pope. He was made cardinal in 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI.
<h3>Cardinal Raymond Burke (76, USA)</h3>
A leading figure in Catholic conservatism, Burke is a strong advocate for the Latin Mass and has repeatedly criticised Pope Francis' reforms. He has also opposed changes in Church teachings regarding contraception, civil marriages, and LGBT issues. Burke became a cardinal in 2010 under Pope Benedict XVI.

World: With Pope Francis' health declining, attention has turned to potential successors. Here are some of the leading candidates based on public reports.

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope in the history of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed in a video statement on Monday (April 21). His death comes after a 12-year papacy. Also read: Pope Francis suffering from 'bilateral pneumonia', several events cancelled How is a new Pope chosen? Any Roman Catholic man is technically eligible to become pope, but in practice, the role has always been filled by a cardinal. Currently, there are 253 cardinals worldwide, but only 138 are eligible to vote in the next conclave, as those over 80 years old are excluded. In December last year, Pope Francis raised the maximum number of cardinal electors from 120 to 138, overriding a rule established by Pope Paul VI. With Pope Francis' health declining, attention has turned to potential successors. Here are some of the leading candidates based on public reports. Also read: Pope's condition 'complex', hospital stay extended: Vatican The leading candidates for the Papacy Cardinal Pietro Parolin (70, Italy) Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, has worked closely with Pope Francis for over a decade and is a strong contender. His background in Vatican diplomacy, with experience in Nigeria and Mexico, has shaped his moderate approach to Church leadership. Parolin was promoted to cardinal in 2014 and is widely viewed as a continuation of Francis’ legacy. Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu (65, Democratic Republic of the Congo) As President of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar, Besungu is a significant voice in African Catholicism. He made headlines after rejecting the Fiducia Supplicans doctrine, which allowed priests to bless unmarried and same-sex couples. Despite the doctrine being approved by Pope Francis, Besungu successfully obtained permission to block it in Africa. If elected, he would represent a shift towards conservatism. Pope Francis appointed him as a cardinal in 2019. Cardinal Wim Eijk (71, Netherlands) A former medical doctor, Eijk is regarded as one of the most conservative candidates. He co-authored Eleven Cardinals Speak on Marriage and the Family, which opposed Pope Francis' more lenient stance on remarriage. Eijk also criticised the pope’s handling of a German proposal to allow Protestants to receive the Eucharist. Pope Benedict XVI made him a cardinal in 2012. Cardinal Peter Erdo (72, Hungary) Erdo, a former president of the Council of Bishops Conferences of Europe, is a traditionalist who upholds strict Catholic doctrine. He has opposed allowing divorced and remarried Catholics to receive Holy Communion and has taken a hardline stance against accepting refugees in Europe, likening it to human trafficking. He was named a cardinal in 2003 by Pope John Paul II. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (67, Philippines) Tagle is often described as the "Asian Pope Francis" due to his progressive views. He has spoken out against the Church’s treatment of LGBT individuals, divorced Catholics, and single mothers, arguing that the Church’s rigidity has hindered evangelisation efforts. If elected, he would be the first Asian pope. He was made cardinal in 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI. Cardinal Raymond Burke (76, USA) A leading figure in Catholic conservatism, Burke is a strong advocate for the Latin Mass and has repeatedly criticised Pope Francis' reforms. He has also opposed changes in Church teachings regarding contraception, civil marriages, and LGBT issues. Burke became a cardinal in 2010 under Pope Benedict XVI.

Who could be the next pontiff? Here's the list of potential successors

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope in the history of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed in a video statement on Monday (April 21). His death comes after a 12-year papacy.
On Sunday, Pope Francis appeared in front of a&nbsp;crowd&nbsp;of more than 35,000 people gathered in St. Peter&rsquo;s Square by appearing in the popemobile. It was his most public outing since recovering from a serious bout of double pneumonia.
&ldquo;Brothers and sisters, happy Easter!&rdquo; he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-slept-and-is-resting-but-still-in-critical-condition-says-vatican-8751439">Pope 'slept and is resting', but still in critical condition, says Vatican</a>
Now, after the pope's death, the question arises Who will be the next pope, and how will he be chosen? Well, it's not known yet who will succeed him, but here's how the next pope will be chosen.&nbsp;
<h2>Since when Pope Francis is pope?&nbsp;</h2>
Pope Francis has been the pope since 2013 after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-message-pope-says-confidently-continuing-treatment-8749403">&lsquo;Pray for me,&rsquo; says Pope in message from hospital as he undergoes treatment for double pneumonia</a>
<h2>How a new pope is chosen?&nbsp;</h2>
A new pope is chosen when the incumbent dies or resigns. In 2013, Pope Benedict XVI became the first ever pope to resign in around 600 years.&nbsp;
As per the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, "governance of the Catholic Church passes to the College of Cardinals. Cardinals are bishops and Vatican officials from all over the world, personally chosen by the pope".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-in-critical-condition-after-asthma-like-respiratory-crisis-vatican-8748110">Pope Francis in 'critical' condition after 'asthma-like respiratory crisis': Vatican</a>
A papal election is held in St Peter's Basilica in Vatican City - the occasion is called a conclave. From past 70 years, the pope has been picked from the College of Cardinals.&nbsp;
"The cardinals vote by secret ballot, processing one by one up to Michelangelo's fresco of the Last Judgment, saying a prayer and dropping the twice-folded ballot in a large chalice," the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops further said.&nbsp;
"The result of each ballot [is] counted aloud and recorded by three cardinals designated as recorders. If no one receives the necessary two-thirds of the vote, the ballots are burned in a stove near the chapel with a mixture of chemicals to produce black smoke," it added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-quashes-fake-news-on-pope-francis-health-but-doubts-remain-8743835">Vatican quashes &lsquo;fake news&rsquo; on Pope Francis&rsquo; health, but doubts remain</a>
Until a cardinal receives 2/3 of the total votes, the process keeps repeating. After the process is complete, white smoke will rise from the chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel. It is an indication that the cardinals have elected a new pope.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope in the history of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed in a video statement on Monday (April 21). His death comes after a 12-year papacy.

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope in the history of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed in a video statement on Monday (April 21). His death comes after a 12-year papacy. On Sunday, Pope Francis appeared in front of a crowd of more than 35,000 people gathered in St. Peter’s Square by appearing in the popemobile. It was his most public outing since recovering from a serious bout of double pneumonia. “Brothers and sisters, happy Easter!” he said. Also read: Pope 'slept and is resting', but still in critical condition, says Vatican Now, after the pope's death, the question arises Who will be the next pope, and how will he be chosen? Well, it's not known yet who will succeed him, but here's how the next pope will be chosen. Since when Pope Francis is pope? Pope Francis has been the pope since 2013 after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. Also read: ‘Pray for me,’ says Pope in message from hospital as he undergoes treatment for double pneumonia How a new pope is chosen? A new pope is chosen when the incumbent dies or resigns. In 2013, Pope Benedict XVI became the first ever pope to resign in around 600 years. As per the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, "governance of the Catholic Church passes to the College of Cardinals. Cardinals are bishops and Vatican officials from all over the world, personally chosen by the pope". Also read: Pope Francis in 'critical' condition after 'asthma-like respiratory crisis': Vatican A papal election is held in St Peter's Basilica in Vatican City - the occasion is called a conclave. From past 70 years, the pope has been picked from the College of Cardinals. "The cardinals vote by secret ballot, processing one by one up to Michelangelo's fresco of the Last Judgment, saying a prayer and dropping the twice-folded ballot in a large chalice," the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops further said. "The result of each ballot [is] counted aloud and recorded by three cardinals designated as recorders. If no one receives the necessary two-thirds of the vote, the ballots are burned in a stove near the chapel with a mixture of chemicals to produce black smoke," it added. Also read: Vatican quashes ‘fake news’ on Pope Francis’ health, but doubts remain Until a cardinal receives 2/3 of the total votes, the process keeps repeating. After the process is complete, white smoke will rise from the chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel. It is an indication that the cardinals have elected a new pope. (With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis dies at 88: What happens next? How a new Pope is selected

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope in the history of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed in a video statement on Monday (April 21). His death comes after a 12-year papacy. 
<h2>Pope Francis' final public appearance on Easter Sunday</h2>
On Sunday, Pope Francis appeared in front of crowd of more than 35,000 people gathered in St. Peter&rsquo;s Square by appearing in the popemobile. It was his most public outing since recovering from a serious bout of double pneumonia.
&ldquo;Brothers and sisters, happy Easter!&rdquo; he said.
As is tradition, he delivered the &ldquo;Urbi et Orbi&rdquo; blessing, which means &ldquo;to the city and the world.&rdquo; The message was read aloud by Archbishop Diego Ravelli and included calls for peace in war-torn regions such as Gaza, Ukraine, Congo and Myanmar.
&ldquo;I appeal to the warring parties: call a ceasefire, release the hostages and come to the aid of a starving people that aspires to a future of peace!&rdquo; the message said.
He added, &ldquo;On this day, I would like all of us to hope anew and to revive our trust in others, including those who are different than ourselves&hellip; For all of us are children of God.&rdquo;

World: Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope in the history of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed in a video statement on Monday.

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope in the history of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed in a video statement on Monday (April 21). His death comes after a 12-year papacy. Pope Francis' final public appearance on Easter Sunday On Sunday, Pope Francis appeared in front of crowd of more than 35,000 people gathered in St. Peter’s Square by appearing in the popemobile. It was his most public outing since recovering from a serious bout of double pneumonia. “Brothers and sisters, happy Easter!” he said. As is tradition, he delivered the “Urbi et Orbi” blessing, which means “to the city and the world.” The message was read aloud by Archbishop Diego Ravelli and included calls for peace in war-torn regions such as Gaza, Ukraine, Congo and Myanmar. “I appeal to the warring parties: call a ceasefire, release the hostages and come to the aid of a starving people that aspires to a future of peace!” the message said. He added, “On this day, I would like all of us to hope anew and to revive our trust in others, including those who are different than ourselves… For all of us are children of God.”

Pope Francis dies at 88: Latin America’s first pontiff leaves behind powerful Easter message

US Vice President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-india-visit-live-updates-us-vice-president-4-days-trip-with-family-pm-narendra-modi-meeting-liveblog-india-us-trade-deal-day-1-live-8984099" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">JD Vance</a> arrived in New Delhi on Monday (April 21) for his first official visit to India. He was accompanied by his wife, Usha Vance, and their three children, Ewan, Vivek and Mirabel, for a four-day trip that combines official talks with family sightseeing.
Vance was welcomed at Palam airport as he is set to begin discussions focused on trade and wider global cooperation.
<h2>Talks with PM Modi to focus on trade deal</h2>
Vance is expected to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi today to discuss a bilateral trade agreement. The talks come at a time when Washington&rsquo;s tariff battles with China have created tension across global markets.
According to the White House, the visit is focused on &ldquo;shared economic and geopolitical priorities&rdquo;. India also said the trip would &ldquo;provide an opportunity for both sides to review the progress in bilateral relations&rdquo;.
<h2>US-India trade ties under pressure</h2>
Despite strong personal ties between Trump and Modi, India was hit with 26% tariffs on 2 April. Although a 90-day pause has been introduced, Delhi remains cautious about future trade relations.
Officials in India are working hard to finalise the first phase of a trade deal, which both sides hope to wrap up by autumn. India has already reduced tariffs on some American products, with broader cuts expected soon.
<h2>Bilateral trade could hit $500 billion</h2>
The US is now India&rsquo;s biggest trading partner, with total trade passing $190 billion (&pound;144 billion). Modi&rsquo;s recent visit to Washington helped strengthen ties, with both leaders aiming to push that figure to $500 billion.
Modi described the goal as a &ldquo;mega partnership&rdquo;.
<h2>Farmer protests set to greet Vance</h2>
But not everyone supports the deal. On 21 April, the day of Vance&rsquo;s arrival, India&rsquo;s largest and oldest farmers&rsquo; union, the All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), has planned nationwide protests.
The group argues that opening up trade could severely damage local farming incomes, especially in the dairy industry. They have warned that liberalising trade in this sector could hurt millions of small-scale farmers.

Akshardham Temple spokesperson Radhika Shukla told ANI that souvenirs were presented to the Vance family &ldquo;to preserve unforgettable memories.&rdquo; She added that during his darshan, Vice President Vance admired the temple&rsquo;s intricate artwork, meaningful inscriptions and cultural carvings, while his children &ldquo;thoroughly enjoyed&rdquo; experiencing India&rsquo;s heritage.

JD Vance India visit LIVE: Temple spokesperson says US VP’s children loved Akshardham experience

US Vice President JD Vance and Second Lady Usha Vance will travel to Jaipur on Tuesday, where they are expected to visit several historic landmarks, including the iconic Amer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, according to PTI.&nbsp;Later in the afternoon, Vance is slated to deliver an address at the Rajasthan International Centre.

JD Vance India visit LIVE: US Vice President, Second Lady to visit Amer Fort in Jaipur tomorrow

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VIDEO | US Vice President JD Vance (<a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a>), accompanied by his wife Usha Vance and their three children, visits the Akshardham Temple in Delhi. (Full video available on PTI Videos - <a href="https://t.co/n147TvrpG7">https://t.co/n147TvrpG7</a>) <a href="https://t.co/gNo2p1EOPz">pic.twitter.com/gNo2p1EOPz</a>
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1914202612729258398?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2025</a></blockquote>

JD Vance India visit LIVE: US Vice President, Second Lady Usha Vance visit Akshardham Temple with kids | Watch 

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US Vice President JD Vance, Second Lady Usha Vance, and their children leave Akshardham Temple after their visit in Delhi . . . . (Video: news agency ANI) <a href="https://t.co/P7H2RkhEHu">pic.twitter.com/P7H2RkhEHu</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1914203886933721506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2025</a></blockquote>

JD Vance India visit LIVE: US Vice President and Second Lady Usha Vance leave Akshardham Temple after visit

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A very warm welcome to <a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a> JD Vance, <a href="https://twitter.com/SLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SLOTUS</a> Mrs. Usha Vance, &amp; the U.S. 🇺🇸 delegation to 🇮🇳! Received by Minister of Railways and I&amp;B <a href="https://twitter.com/AshwiniVaishnaw?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AshwiniVaishnaw</a> at the airport. The Official Visit (21&ndash;24 Apr) spanning Delhi, Jaipur &amp; Agra is expected to further deepen the India&ndash;U.S.&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/EAb8eto33N">pic.twitter.com/EAb8eto33N</a>
&mdash; Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1914186252162584969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2025</a></blockquote>

JD Vance India visit LIVE: MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal welcomes JD Vance, his wife Usha Vance

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Vice President of the United States, JD Vance, Second Lady Usha Vance, along with their children, reach Akshardham Temple. <a href="https://t.co/y0D2zp1lBi">pic.twitter.com/y0D2zp1lBi</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1914189428496666936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2025</a></blockquote>

JD Vance India visit LIVE: US Vice President arrives at Akshardham Temple | Watch

US Vice President to arrive at Akshardham Temple directly from airport.
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Visuals from the Akshardham Temple where Vice President of the United States, JD Vance, Second Lady Usha Vance, along with their children, will visit shortly. Akshardham Temple Spokesperson Radhika Shukla says, "The Vice President and the Second Lady are coming&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/yEKwdZemVj">pic.twitter.com/yEKwdZemVj</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1914181315315863593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2025</a></blockquote>

JD Vance India visit LIVE: US Vice President to visit Akshardham Temple straight from airport

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Vice President of the United States, JD Vance receives ceremonial Guard of Honour as he arrives at Palam airport for his first official visit to India. <a href="https://t.co/eIuHmnG8kM">pic.twitter.com/eIuHmnG8kM</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1914174565443400036?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2025</a></blockquote>

JD Vance India visit LIVE: US Vice President receives ceremonial Guard of Honour | Watch

US Vice President JD Vance is now in Delhi after landing at Palam airport, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to officially welcome the Vance family shortly. The two leaders are expected to meet this evening, followed by a dinner and scheduled talks at 6:30 pm. Vance was seen stepping off the plane alongside his wife, Second Lady Usha Vance.

JD Vance India visit LIVE: PM Modi to welcome Vance family soon

US Vice President JD Vance arrived in India with wife Usha and their three kids. While JD and Usha were seen in formal attire, the kids were seen wearing traditional Indian attire. Both sons of Vance were wearing Kurta and Pyjama (an Indian attire), and his little daughter was seen wearing a blue dress inspired by Indian ethnic design.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-jd-and-usha-vances-kids-in-traditional-indian-attire-win-hearts-8984183" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to read more</a>

JD Vance India visit LIVE: JD and Usha Vance's kids in traditional Indian attire win hearts

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Vice President of the United States, JD Vance, Second Lady Usha Vance, along with their children, at Palam airport. Vice President JD Vance is on his first official visit to India and will meet PM Modi later today. <a href="https://t.co/LBDQES2mz1">pic.twitter.com/LBDQES2mz1</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1914174970176966987?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2025</a></blockquote>

JD Vance India visit LIVE: US Vice President's kids don traditional Indian attire | Watch

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US Vice President JD Vance arrives at Palam airport for his 4 days official visit to India along with his Indian-origin wife Usha Vance and their three children. (Source: ANI)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JDVance?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JDVance</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UshaVance?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UshaVance</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMModi</a> <a href="https://t.co/6zSz8pLnyO">pic.twitter.com/6zSz8pLnyO</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1914171438862663853?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2025</a></blockquote>

JD Vance India visit LIVE: US Vice President arrives in India with wife Usha Vance, kids

World: Vance is expected to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi today to discuss a bilateral trade agreement. The talks come at a time when Washington’s tariff battles with China have created tension across global markets.

US Vice President JD Vance arrived in New Delhi on Monday (April 21) for his first official visit to India. He was accompanied by his wife, Usha Vance, and their three children, Ewan, Vivek and Mirabel, for a four-day trip that combines official talks with family sightseeing. Vance was welcomed at Palam airport as he is set to begin discussions focused on trade and wider global cooperation. Talks with PM Modi to focus on trade deal Vance is expected to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi today to discuss a bilateral trade agreement. The talks come at a time when Washington’s tariff battles with China have created tension across global markets. According to the White House, the visit is focused on “shared economic and geopolitical priorities”. India also said the trip would “provide an opportunity for both sides to review the progress in bilateral relations”. US-India trade ties under pressure Despite strong personal ties between Trump and Modi, India was hit with 26% tariffs on 2 April. Although a 90-day pause has been introduced, Delhi remains cautious about future trade relations. Officials in India are working hard to finalise the first phase of a trade deal, which both sides hope to wrap up by autumn. India has already reduced tariffs on some American products, with broader cuts expected soon. Bilateral trade could hit $500 billion The US is now India’s biggest trading partner, with total trade passing $190 billion (£144 billion). Modi’s recent visit to Washington helped strengthen ties, with both leaders aiming to push that figure to $500 billion. Modi described the goal as a “mega partnership”. Farmer protests set to greet Vance But not everyone supports the deal. On 21 April, the day of Vance’s arrival, India’s largest and oldest farmers’ union, the All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), has planned nationwide protests. The group argues that opening up trade could severely damage local farming incomes, especially in the dairy industry. They have warned that liberalising trade in this sector could hurt millions of small-scale farmers.

JD Vance India visit LIVE: US Vice President, Second Lady Usha Vance visit Akshardham Temple with kids | Watch

US Vice President JD Vance, on Monday (Apr 21), arrived in Delhi for his first official visit to India.
Upon his arrival at the Palam airport, Vance received a ceremonial Guard of Honour.
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Vice President of the United States, JD Vance receives ceremonial Guard of Honour as he arrives at Palam airport for his first official visit to India. <a href="https://t.co/eIuHmnG8kM">pic.twitter.com/eIuHmnG8kM</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1914174565443400036?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
The US vice president, along with his children and Second Lady Usha Vance, was welcomed by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Vice President of the United States, JD Vance receives ceremonial Guard of Honour as he arrives at Palam airport for his first official visit to India. He will meet PM Modi later today. <a href="https://t.co/Xzx8P85lvz">pic.twitter.com/Xzx8P85lvz</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1914173980514128181?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
Several hoardings were also placed close to the airport ahead of Vance's India visit.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9qq16k6-p9kj432s-rqlngxpx">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Vice President of the United States, JD Vance, along with Second Lady Usha Vance arrive at Palam airport. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw received the Vice President. <a href="https://t.co/pN4NZlYfNn">pic.twitter.com/pN4NZlYfNn</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1914173085294489902?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Vance's four-day official visit to India</h2>
Vance is on a four-day official visit to India, from April 21 to 24, during which he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi today.
The formal meeting between PM Modi and Vance is scheduled for 6:30 pm at the Prime Minister's official residence, 7, Lok Kalyan Marg.
The discussions will likely be centred around strengthening economic, trade, and defence cooperation between the two nations.
The meeting between PM Modi and Vance also comes amid US President Donald Trump's trade tariff threat.
Following the official meetings, the Vance family will travel to Jaipur on Tuesday (Apr 22) and on Wednesday (Apr 23), he is scheduled to visit Agra.
Vance's visit to India is expected to bolster bilateral ties between the two nations, with discussions covering key issues between India and the US.&nbsp;
During the weekly media briefing last Thursday (Apr 17), on being asked about the possibility of tariff discussions Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "We have a comprehensive strategic global partnership; when you have that level of partnership with any country, obviously, you will discuss all relevant issues."
He added, "Of course, our relationship is such that we are doing anything that is part of our human endeavour from part of our bilateral engagement ... so all these bilateral issues will be discussed and we are very positive that the visit will give a further boost to our bilateral ties."
He also highlighted that the discussions between both countries regarding a potential trade agreement. "We are talking to the US side so that a bilateral trade agreement can be done," he said.

India news: US Vice President JD Vance is on a four-day official visit to India, from April 21 to 24, during which he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi today.

US Vice President JD Vance, on Monday (Apr 21), arrived in Delhi for his first official visit to India. Upon his arrival at the Palam airport, Vance received a ceremonial Guard of Honour. #WATCH | Delhi: Vice President of the United States, JD Vance receives ceremonial Guard of Honour as he arrives at Palam airport for his first official visit to India. pic.twitter.com/eIuHmnG8kM — ANI (@ANI) April 21, 2025 The US vice president, along with his children and Second Lady Usha Vance, was welcomed by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. #WATCH | Delhi: Vice President of the United States, JD Vance receives ceremonial Guard of Honour as he arrives at Palam airport for his first official visit to India. He will meet PM Modi later today. pic.twitter.com/Xzx8P85lvz — ANI (@ANI) April 21, 2025 Several hoardings were also placed close to the airport ahead of Vance's India visit. #WATCH | Delhi: Vice President of the United States, JD Vance, along with Second Lady Usha Vance arrive at Palam airport. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw received the Vice President. pic.twitter.com/pN4NZlYfNn — ANI (@ANI) April 21, 2025 Vance's four-day official visit to India Vance is on a four-day official visit to India, from April 21 to 24, during which he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi today. The formal meeting between PM Modi and Vance is scheduled for 6:30 pm at the Prime Minister's official residence, 7, Lok Kalyan Marg. The discussions will likely be centred around strengthening economic, trade, and defence cooperation between the two nations. The meeting between PM Modi and Vance also comes amid US President Donald Trump's trade tariff threat. Following the official meetings, the Vance family will travel to Jaipur on Tuesday (Apr 22) and on Wednesday (Apr 23), he is scheduled to visit Agra. Vance's visit to India is expected to bolster bilateral ties between the two nations, with discussions covering key issues between India and the US. During the weekly media briefing last Thursday (Apr 17), on being asked about the possibility of tariff discussions Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "We have a comprehensive strategic global partnership; when you have that level of partnership with any country, obviously, you will discuss all relevant issues." He added, "Of course, our relationship is such that we are doing anything that is part of our human endeavour from part of our bilateral engagement ... so all these bilateral issues will be discussed and we are very positive that the visit will give a further boost to our bilateral ties." He also highlighted that the discussions between both countries regarding a potential trade agreement. "We are talking to the US side so that a bilateral trade agreement can be done," he said.

US Vice President JD Vance receives Guard of Honour upon arrival in India- WATCH

China has issued a strong warning to other nations, urging them not to cave into pressure from the United States in ongoing trade talks triggered by President Donald Trump&rsquo;s sweeping tariffs.
Responding to reports that the US is using tariff exemptions to demand restrictions on trade with China, a spokesperson for China&rsquo;s Commerce Ministry said, &ldquo;Appeasement cannot bring peace, and compromise cannot earn one respect.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sends-55m-boeing-jet-back-to-us-calls-it-too-expensive-under-trump-tariffs-8984077" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">5,000-mile return: China sends $55M Boeing jet back to US, calls it &lsquo;too expensive&rsquo; under Trump tariffs</a>
&ldquo;Seeking temporary self-interest at the expense of others &mdash; in exchange for so-called exemptions &mdash; is like asking a tiger for its skin. In the end, it will achieve nothing and harm both others and oneself,&rdquo; the spokesperson said in a statement.
&ldquo;China firmly opposes any party reaching a deal at the expense of China&rsquo;s interests. If such a situation arises, China will not accept it and will resolutely take reciprocal countermeasures,&rdquo; the spokesperson added.
<h2>China defends fair trade rules</h2>
The ministry added, &ldquo;China believes that all parties should stand on the side of fairness... and should defend international economic and trade rules and the multilateral trading system.&rdquo;
Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/apple-faces-major-headwinds-as-us-china-trade-wars-intensify-8984319" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Apple faces major headwinds as US-China trade wars intensify</a>
This comes as several countries begin negotiating with Washington over Trump&rsquo;s latest trade moves, which have seen steep tariffs placed on Chinese imports, alongside levies on goods from other countries.
<h2>Talks underway with Japan and South Korea</h2>
Japan&rsquo;s top trade envoy, Ryosei Akazawa, met with President Trump in Washington last week to begin discussions. South Korea&rsquo;s acting president, Han Duck-soo, has confirmed his government will start similar talks with the US this week.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-names-8-ways-countries-are-cheating-us-on-trade-heres-the-full-list-8983880" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump names 8 ways countries are &lsquo;cheating&rsquo; US on trade: Here&rsquo;s the full list</a>
Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance is in India and is expected to hold trade talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. India could face a 26% tariff if no agreement is reached with the Trump administration.
Since returning to the White House in January, Trump has repeatedly said the import taxes aim to encourage Americans to buy more domestically made goods, boost government revenue, and attract fresh investment into the country.
<h2>Tariff threats followed by surprise pause</h2>
Although Trump introduced sweeping tariffs earlier this month, he later announced a 90-day pause for most countries, excluding China.
At present, China faces tariffs of up to 145% on its exports to the US, with officials warning that combined with existing levies, some products could be hit with a 245% tax. Other countries are now facing a flat 10% tariff on their goods until July.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/signal-group-chat-leak-trumps-defense-secretary-hegseth-shared-details-of-yemen-attack-with-his-wife-and-family-8983897" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Signal group chat leak: Trump's defence secretary Hegseth 'shared' details of Yemen attack with his wife and family</a>
Trump took to his social media platform on Sunday, to announce that countries have be reaching out to ask for relief from tariffs, saying, "Since our announcement of LIBERATION DAY, many World Leaders and Business Executives have come to me asking for relief from Tariffs. It&rsquo;s good to see that the World knows we are serious because WE ARE! They must right the wrongs of decades of abuse, but it won&rsquo;t be easy for them. We must rebuild the Wealth of our Great Country, and create true RECIPROCITY. But for those who want the easiest path: Come to America, and build in America!"

World: Responding to reports that the US is using tariff exemptions to demand restrictions on trade with China, a spokesperson for Beijing said, “Appeasement cannot bring peace.”

China has issued a strong warning to other nations, urging them not to cave into pressure from the United States in ongoing trade talks triggered by President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs. Responding to reports that the US is using tariff exemptions to demand restrictions on trade with China, a spokesperson for China’s Commerce Ministry said, “Appeasement cannot bring peace, and compromise cannot earn one respect.” Also read: 5,000-mile return: China sends $55M Boeing jet back to US, calls it ‘too expensive’ under Trump tariffs “Seeking temporary self-interest at the expense of others — in exchange for so-called exemptions — is like asking a tiger for its skin. In the end, it will achieve nothing and harm both others and oneself,” the spokesperson said in a statement. “China firmly opposes any party reaching a deal at the expense of China’s interests. If such a situation arises, China will not accept it and will resolutely take reciprocal countermeasures,” the spokesperson added. China defends fair trade rules The ministry added, “China believes that all parties should stand on the side of fairness... and should defend international economic and trade rules and the multilateral trading system.” Watch: Apple faces major headwinds as US-China trade wars intensify This comes as several countries begin negotiating with Washington over Trump’s latest trade moves, which have seen steep tariffs placed on Chinese imports, alongside levies on goods from other countries. Talks underway with Japan and South Korea Japan’s top trade envoy, Ryosei Akazawa, met with President Trump in Washington last week to begin discussions. South Korea’s acting president, Han Duck-soo, has confirmed his government will start similar talks with the US this week. Also read: Trump names 8 ways countries are ‘cheating’ US on trade: Here’s the full list Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance is in India and is expected to hold trade talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. India could face a 26% tariff if no agreement is reached with the Trump administration. Since returning to the White House in January, Trump has repeatedly said the import taxes aim to encourage Americans to buy more domestically made goods, boost government revenue, and attract fresh investment into the country. Tariff threats followed by surprise pause Although Trump introduced sweeping tariffs earlier this month, he later announced a 90-day pause for most countries, excluding China. At present, China faces tariffs of up to 145% on its exports to the US, with officials warning that combined with existing levies, some products could be hit with a 245% tax. Other countries are now facing a flat 10% tariff on their goods until July. Also read: Signal group chat leak: Trump's defence secretary Hegseth 'shared' details of Yemen attack with his wife and family Trump took to his social media platform on Sunday, to announce that countries have be reaching out to ask for relief from tariffs, saying, "Since our announcement of LIBERATION DAY, many World Leaders and Business Executives have come to me asking for relief from Tariffs. It’s good to see that the World knows we are serious because WE ARE! They must right the wrongs of decades of abuse, but it won’t be easy for them. We must rebuild the Wealth of our Great Country, and create true RECIPROCITY. But for those who want the easiest path: Come to America, and build in America!"

‘Asking tiger for its skin’: China issues BIG warning to world against ‘appeasing’ Trump on tariffs, threatens payback

Just as the US government is fighting the fallout of the Signalgate leak, another report has claimed that sensitive information including White House floor plans may have been inadvertantly sent to some 11,000 federal workers. The information was shared during both the current Trump administration as well as when his predecessor Joe Biden was at the White House.
&nbsp;
<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/2703_ARJUN_TRUMP_830PM_GUEST/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2703_ARJUN_TRUMP_830PM_GUEST.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=211&amp;tags=Trump, US, World News, WION" title="Yemen war chat leak: Team Trump puts up show of unity" id="PL_iframe_block-m9qnf86v-hc2hvbv2-m0p999gr"></iframe>
According to a report in The Washington Post, the oversight happened at the the General Services Administration or GSA.
GSA is responsible for supporting the federal bureaucracy and managing government properties.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/signal-group-chat-leak-trumps-defense-secretary-hegseth-shared-details-of-yemen-attack-with-his-wife-and-family-8983897">Signal group chat leak: Trump's defence secretary Hegseth 'shared' details of Yemen attack with his wife and family</a>
The concerning report comes just weeks after a Signal group chat on US plans to attack the Houthi rebels in Yemen was leaked when a journalist was inadvertently added to the chat group.
<h2>Cybersecurity lapses in the federal government raise alarm</h2>
Documents open to all GSA staff, and which could have been potentially leaked, included blueprints of the White House East and West Wings, according to the Washington Post report
All the files were not classified, but might have contained information that should have been closely guarded from the enemies of the US.
&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-google-your-symptoms-tell-them-to-chatgpt-it-saved-a-womans-life-8972116">'If you had gone to sleep...': ChatGPT told a pregnant woman to call an ambulance. It saved her life</a>
<h2> How did the GSA leak come to light?</h2>
The data breach came to light during internal audits last week, according to the report.&nbsp;The tech team of IT locked down the files, and reversed access to the documents.
An investigation is currently underway.
<h2>How did GSA data leak?</h2>
According to the Washington Post report, a Google Drive folder containing the sensitive data was made accessible to the entire GSA staff, which numbers around 11,000.
Exactly how many of these staffers may have opened and seen the information, or worse, shared it outside, is not clear from the report.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-ordered-to-preserve-signalgate-chats-amid-growing-controversy-over-leaked-yemen-attack-plans-8898621">Trump admin ordered to preserve 'Signalgate' chats amid growing controversy over leaked Yemen attack plans</a>
The details in the folder included White House security features, including a proposed blast door for the White House Visitor Center, and even banking information for a vendor tied to a Trump-era news conference.
It is alarming news, given that the Capitol riot happened not too long ago.
On 6 January 2021, a group of Trump supporters barged into the Capitol Hill when Trump rejected the outcome of the 2020 November election.
The error may have been triggered by the actions of some career employees at the GSA, and a full investigation is on, according to the Washington Post.
<h2>GSA data breach: How bad is the damage?</h2>
May of the files in the folder were marked as CUI, meaning Controlled Unclassified Information.
These were not all classified information, but sensitive enought to be protected from outsiders.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/signal-chat-leak-two-top-pentagon-officials-put-on-leave-as-part-of-probe-say-reports-8968227">Signal chat leak: Two top Pentagon officials put on leave as part of probe, say reports</a>
Shockingly, it also emerged that out of the 15 documents, 10 were editable, meaning any GSA staff member with access could have altered the contents in the files.
<h2>When did the data leak start, and is it still happening?</h2>
The 'free for all' access to the GSA documents dates back to March 2021, just two months after Biden took over as president, and into the current Trump administration.
The report said there was also a 'particularly damaging leak' as recently as last week.&nbsp;
<h2>GSA under scrutiny</h2>
The GSA is now facing intense scrutiny over its handling of digital security, as the breach shows how easy it is for data to slip through.&nbsp;
&ldquo;These documents should never have been shared with 11,000 people. The potential risks are enormous,&rdquo; the report quoted an expert as saying.
GSA is revieiwing its practices and has intensified &nbsp;training efforts to ensure a security disaster like this does not occur in future, the report added.

GSA leaks : Documents open to all GSA staff, and which could have been potentially leaked, included blueprints of the White House East and West Wings. World Trending

Just as the US government is fighting the fallout of the Signalgate leak, another report has claimed that sensitive information including White House floor plans may have been inadvertantly sent to some 11,000 federal workers. The information was shared during both the current Trump administration as well as when his predecessor Joe Biden was at the White House. According to a report in The Washington Post, the oversight happened at the the General Services Administration or GSA. GSA is responsible for supporting the federal bureaucracy and managing government properties. Signal group chat leak: Trump's defence secretary Hegseth 'shared' details of Yemen attack with his wife and family The concerning report comes just weeks after a Signal group chat on US plans to attack the Houthi rebels in Yemen was leaked when a journalist was inadvertently added to the chat group. Cybersecurity lapses in the federal government raise alarm Documents open to all GSA staff, and which could have been potentially leaked, included blueprints of the White House East and West Wings, according to the Washington Post report All the files were not classified, but might have contained information that should have been closely guarded from the enemies of the US. 'If you had gone to sleep...': ChatGPT told a pregnant woman to call an ambulance. It saved her life How did the GSA leak come to light? The data breach came to light during internal audits last week, according to the report. The tech team of IT locked down the files, and reversed access to the documents. An investigation is currently underway. How did GSA data leak? According to the Washington Post report, a Google Drive folder containing the sensitive data was made accessible to the entire GSA staff, which numbers around 11,000. Exactly how many of these staffers may have opened and seen the information, or worse, shared it outside, is not clear from the report. Trump admin ordered to preserve 'Signalgate' chats amid growing controversy over leaked Yemen attack plans The details in the folder included White House security features, including a proposed blast door for the White House Visitor Center, and even banking information for a vendor tied to a Trump-era news conference. It is alarming news, given that the Capitol riot happened not too long ago. On 6 January 2021, a group of Trump supporters barged into the Capitol Hill when Trump rejected the outcome of the 2020 November election. The error may have been triggered by the actions of some career employees at the GSA, and a full investigation is on, according to the Washington Post. GSA data breach: How bad is the damage? May of the files in the folder were marked as CUI, meaning Controlled Unclassified Information. These were not all classified information, but sensitive enought to be protected from outsiders. Signal chat leak: Two top Pentagon officials put on leave as part of probe, say reports Shockingly, it also emerged that out of the 15 documents, 10 were editable, meaning any GSA staff member with access could have altered the contents in the files. When did the data leak start, and is it still happening? The 'free for all' access to the GSA documents dates back to March 2021, just two months after Biden took over as president, and into the current Trump administration. The report said there was also a 'particularly damaging leak' as recently as last week. GSA under scrutiny The GSA is now facing intense scrutiny over its handling of digital security, as the breach shows how easy it is for data to slip through. “These documents should never have been shared with 11,000 people. The potential risks are enormous,” the report quoted an expert as saying. GSA is revieiwing its practices and has intensified training efforts to ensure a security disaster like this does not occur in future, the report added.

Another major leak! 11,000 US federal workers could access White House floor plans, other sensitive documents: Report

Gold prices have been piercing the roof, and with that, it seems like a good time to sell the gold. But in China, the selling has taken a modern turn as locals are giving the country's first 'gold ATM' a shot. Ditching the traditional gold selling pattern, this comes as the ATM is speeding up the process with the latest technology.
The machine operated by China's Kinghood Group&nbsp;weighs, checks quality, and assays before vending out the money equivalent to the price of the yellow metal. The Shanghai mall is currently seeing long queues of people trying to sell off their generational gold they have been holding on to, and maybe for a much increased price over the value of its purchase. Gold is only getting expensive by the day.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9qmxtm0-q2lk7lta-0ggeuu12">
A gold ATM in Shanghai, China It melts the gold and transfers the amount corresponding to its weight to your bank account. <a href="https://t.co/hFu3AjqEo2">pic.twitter.com/hFu3AjqEo2</a>
&mdash; Tansu Yegen (@TansuYegen) <a href="https://twitter.com/TansuYegen/status/1913707327238406389?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2025</a></blockquote>
&ldquo;Our store&rsquo;s gold buyback price is $98 per gram, and the selling price for AU999 gold jewellery is $116 per gram. Since we have our own gold mining rights, both our selling and buyback prices are slightly lower than other branded stores. That said, customer traffic is still relatively quiet at the moment,&rdquo; a sales representative from China Gold told reporters at the mall, as quoted in the news outlet <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="qbe-widget" href="http://mining.com">mining.com</a>.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/thinking-of-taking-a-gold-loan-heres-what-you-must-know-first-8979573">Thinking of Taking a Gold Loan? Here&rsquo;s What You Must Know First</a>
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re doing a bit better compared to others, but gold shops without direct mining sources are seeing even weaker business,&rdquo; the sales representative added.
&ldquo;The introduction of smart gold ATMs primarily serves a recycling function from a business perspective. This reflects the fact that, with rising gold prices, the value of gold held by the public has increased significantly, leading to a stronger desire to cash out,&rdquo; Xu Weixin, a member of the Shanghai Gold Association, told reporters.
&ldquo;There is still strong upward momentum for gold, mainly driven by central banks and institutional investors accelerating their gold purchases,&rdquo; he added. He further advised people to hold on and not rush into the instant gratification of selling gold. He says they should consider holding it for longer.

Gold prices have been piercing the roof, and with that, it seems like a good time to sell the gold. But in China, the selling has taken a modern turn as locals are giving the country's first 'gold ATM' a shot. World

Gold prices have been piercing the roof, and with that, it seems like a good time to sell the gold. But in China, the selling has taken a modern turn as locals are giving the country's first 'gold ATM' a shot. Ditching the traditional gold selling pattern, this comes as the ATM is speeding up the process with the latest technology. The machine operated by China's Kinghood Group weighs, checks quality, and assays before vending out the money equivalent to the price of the yellow metal. The Shanghai mall is currently seeing long queues of people trying to sell off their generational gold they have been holding on to, and maybe for a much increased price over the value of its purchase. Gold is only getting expensive by the day. A gold ATM in Shanghai, China It melts the gold and transfers the amount corresponding to its weight to your bank account. pic.twitter.com/hFu3AjqEo2 — Tansu Yegen (@TansuYegen) April 19, 2025 “Our store’s gold buyback price is $98 per gram, and the selling price for AU999 gold jewellery is $116 per gram. Since we have our own gold mining rights, both our selling and buyback prices are slightly lower than other branded stores. That said, customer traffic is still relatively quiet at the moment,” a sales representative from China Gold told reporters at the mall, as quoted in the news outlet mining.com. Also read: Thinking of Taking a Gold Loan? Here’s What You Must Know First “We’re doing a bit better compared to others, but gold shops without direct mining sources are seeing even weaker business,” the sales representative added. “The introduction of smart gold ATMs primarily serves a recycling function from a business perspective. This reflects the fact that, with rising gold prices, the value of gold held by the public has increased significantly, leading to a stronger desire to cash out,” Xu Weixin, a member of the Shanghai Gold Association, told reporters. “There is still strong upward momentum for gold, mainly driven by central banks and institutional investors accelerating their gold purchases,” he added. He further advised people to hold on and not rush into the instant gratification of selling gold. He says they should consider holding it for longer.

Shanghai installs world's 1st 'gold ATM', people rush to sell generational jewellery. Is India next?

A Boeing 737 MAX originally meant for China&rsquo;s Xiamen Airlines flew back to the United States on Sunday, highlighting the growing impact of U.S.-China trade tensions. The aircraft, clearly marked with Xiamen livery, touched down at Boeing Field in Seattle at 6:11 pm.
The plane had been waiting at Boeing&rsquo;s Zhoushan centre in China for final work and delivery. Instead, it made the long 5,000-mile journey back to the US, stopping to refuel in Guam and Hawaii.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-names-8-ways-countries-are-cheating-us-on-trade-heres-the-full-list-8983880" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump names 8 ways countries are &lsquo;cheating&rsquo; US on trade: Here&rsquo;s the full list</a>
<h2>Tariffs bite as aircraft deliveries stall</h2>
This reversal follows new tariff hikes. President Donald Trump recently raised US tariffs on Chinese imports to 145%, while China responded with a 125% tariff on US goods. That means any Chinese airline receiving a US-made jet like the 737 MAX, valued at around $55 million, would now face a huge cost increase.
The 737 MAX is Boeing&rsquo;s best-selling model. Its return to the US is the latest sign of how the aerospace industry&rsquo;s long-standing duty-free status is falling apart.
<h2>Airlines may delay plane deliveries over costs</h2>
With confusion growing over tariffs, several airline CEOs have hinted that they may delay taking deliveries to avoid the added expense. Analysts believe many deliveries could now be put on hold.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/signal-group-chat-leak-trumps-defense-secretary-hegseth-shared-details-of-yemen-attack-with-his-wife-and-family-8983897" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Signal group chat leak: Trump's defence secretary Hegseth 'shared' details of Yemen attack with his wife and family</a>
Just last week, Boeing shares dropped after a report claimed&nbsp;China suspended all Boeing deliveries. Following Bloomberg&rsquo;s report, Boeing&rsquo;s stock dipped 1% by midday.
<h2>Boeing faces bigger risks than most in trade disputes</h2>
Boeing is particularly exposed in global trade rows. Unlike some other companies, it builds all its planes in US factories but exports nearly two-thirds of them. Boeing also plays a major role in the American economy, supporting about 1.6 million jobs and contributing an estimated $79 billion. The company employs nearly 150,000 people in the US alone.
Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-is-hopeful-of-russia-ukraine-peace-deal-this-week-8983917">Trump is hopeful of Russia-Ukraine peace deal this week</a>
<h2>Years of struggles and losses for Boeing</h2>
Boeing has been in a rough spot for years. Since 2018, its last profitable year, the planemaker has recorded $51 billion in operating losses. China, the world&rsquo;s largest aircraft market, is key to Boeing&rsquo;s future, with 8,830 new planes expected to be ordered there over the next 20 years.
Yet Boeing&rsquo;s orders from China have dried up. It received 122 plane orders from Chinese customers in 2017 and 2018. But in the six years since, it has logged just 28, mainly from leasing firms or for cargo use. No recent orders have come from Chinese passenger airlines.
<h2>Not just trade tensions: Crashes and groundings also to blame</h2>
Trade friction isn&rsquo;t the only reason for Boeing&rsquo;s problems in China. The 737 MAX was grounded globally after two deadly crashes in 2018 and 2019. Deliveries nearly stopped entirely after the second crash, and even when most countries cleared the aircraft in 2020, China held off. It was only last year that deliveries to China began to pick up again.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-putins-easter-truce-just-an-attempt-to-appease-trump-8983590" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Russia-Ukraine war: Was Putin's Easter truce just an attempt to appease Trump?</a>
Boeing&rsquo;s business model relies heavily on completed deliveries, that&rsquo;s when most payments are made. At the end of 2024, the company had 55 planes sitting in inventory, mainly for Chinese and Indian customers, but couldn't hand them over.

World: The plane had been waiting at Boeing’s Zhoushan centre in China for final work and delivery. Instead, it made the long 5,000-mile journey back to the US, stopping to refuel in Guam and Hawaii.

A Boeing 737 MAX originally meant for China’s Xiamen Airlines flew back to the United States on Sunday, highlighting the growing impact of U.S.-China trade tensions. The aircraft, clearly marked with Xiamen livery, touched down at Boeing Field in Seattle at 6:11 pm. The plane had been waiting at Boeing’s Zhoushan centre in China for final work and delivery. Instead, it made the long 5,000-mile journey back to the US, stopping to refuel in Guam and Hawaii. Also read: Trump names 8 ways countries are ‘cheating’ US on trade: Here’s the full list Tariffs bite as aircraft deliveries stall This reversal follows new tariff hikes. President Donald Trump recently raised US tariffs on Chinese imports to 145%, while China responded with a 125% tariff on US goods. That means any Chinese airline receiving a US-made jet like the 737 MAX, valued at around $55 million, would now face a huge cost increase. The 737 MAX is Boeing’s best-selling model. Its return to the US is the latest sign of how the aerospace industry’s long-standing duty-free status is falling apart. Airlines may delay plane deliveries over costs With confusion growing over tariffs, several airline CEOs have hinted that they may delay taking deliveries to avoid the added expense. Analysts believe many deliveries could now be put on hold. Also read: Signal group chat leak: Trump's defence secretary Hegseth 'shared' details of Yemen attack with his wife and family Just last week, Boeing shares dropped after a report claimed China suspended all Boeing deliveries. Following Bloomberg’s report, Boeing’s stock dipped 1% by midday. Boeing faces bigger risks than most in trade disputes Boeing is particularly exposed in global trade rows. Unlike some other companies, it builds all its planes in US factories but exports nearly two-thirds of them. Boeing also plays a major role in the American economy, supporting about 1.6 million jobs and contributing an estimated $79 billion. The company employs nearly 150,000 people in the US alone. Watch: Trump is hopeful of Russia-Ukraine peace deal this week Years of struggles and losses for Boeing Boeing has been in a rough spot for years. Since 2018, its last profitable year, the planemaker has recorded $51 billion in operating losses. China, the world’s largest aircraft market, is key to Boeing’s future, with 8,830 new planes expected to be ordered there over the next 20 years. Yet Boeing’s orders from China have dried up. It received 122 plane orders from Chinese customers in 2017 and 2018. But in the six years since, it has logged just 28, mainly from leasing firms or for cargo use. No recent orders have come from Chinese passenger airlines. Not just trade tensions: Crashes and groundings also to blame Trade friction isn’t the only reason for Boeing’s problems in China. The 737 MAX was grounded globally after two deadly crashes in 2018 and 2019. Deliveries nearly stopped entirely after the second crash, and even when most countries cleared the aircraft in 2020, China held off. It was only last year that deliveries to China began to pick up again. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Was Putin's Easter truce just an attempt to appease Trump? Boeing’s business model relies heavily on completed deliveries, that’s when most payments are made. At the end of 2024, the company had 55 planes sitting in inventory, mainly for Chinese and Indian customers, but couldn't hand them over.

5,000-mile return: China sends $55M Boeing jet back to US, calls it ‘too expensive’ under Trump tariffs

In a new update on the Signal group chat leak, reports are that Donald Trump's defence secretary,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobody-was-texting-war-plans-hegseth-denies-texting-yemen-war-plans-calls-journalist-deceitful-8887113" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pete Hegseth</a>, had shared a piece of detailed information about the military strike on Yemen in March with his wife. Hegseth's other family members, such as his brother and about a dozen other people, were also part of the group chat created by him for the planned attacks by the US.&nbsp;
United States Vice President JD Vance has embarked on his first official visit to India after assuming office. He is estimated to reach the Indian capital by 9:30 AM IST, according to the White House Press Pool. Vance is scheduled to meet PM Narendra Modi at his residence 7, Lok Kalyan Marg.
Just a day after the vandalism of a Gurudwara in Canada's Vancouver, a Hindu temple, Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey, was defaced by pro-Khalistan graffiti. This was in a series of alarming anti-India incidents in Canada.&nbsp;
Click on the headlines to read more&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/signal-group-chat-leak-trumps-defense-secretary-hegseth-shared-details-of-yemen-attack-with-his-wife-and-family-8983897">Signal group chat leak: Trump's defence secretary Hegseth 'shared' details of Yemen attack with his wife and family</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/21/nYp5nDgyVvIsl4PBwQRY.png" alt=" Signal group chat leak: Trump's defense secretary Hegseth 'shared' details of Yemen attack with his wife and family Photograph: (Reuters) ">In a new update on the Signal group chat leak, reports are that Donald Trump's defence secretary,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobody-was-texting-war-plans-hegseth-denies-texting-yemen-war-plans-calls-journalist-deceitful-8887113" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pete Hegseth</a>, had shared a piece of detailed information about the military strike on Yemen in March with his wife.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jd-vance-in-india-delhi-traffic-police-releases-advisory-check-suggested-routes-and-diversions-8983902">JD Vance's India visit: Delhi traffic police releases advisory, CHECK suggested routes and diversions</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/28/jT92KL1Qk7qGbHcuP05k.png" alt=" The measures aim to ensure public safety and smooth traffic flow during the celebrations on 31 December 2024. Photograph: (Reuters) " style="width: 1280px;">
United States Vice President JD Vance has embarked on his first official visit to India after assuming office. He is estimated to reach the Indian capital by 9:30 AM IST, according to the White House Press Pool.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-names-8-ways-countries-are-cheating-us-on-trade-heres-the-full-list-8983880">Trump names 8 ways countries are &lsquo;cheating&rsquo; US on trade: Here&rsquo;s the full list</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/14/bA2dx8VYOtKfbO9S52BH.png" alt=" US President Donald Trump Photograph: (Reuters) ">
US President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/signal-group-chat-leak-trumps-defense-secretary-hegseth-shared-details-of-yemen-attack-with-his-wife-and-family-8983897" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;on Sunday (April 20) shared a list of what he described as &lsquo;non-tariff cheating&rsquo; practices, warning that certain trade behaviours could harm relationships with the United States.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khalistani-extremism-hindu-temple-vandalised-in-canadas-surrey-with-anti-india-graffiti-for-the-3rd-time-in-a-row-8984021">'Khalistani extremism': Hindu temple vandalised in Canada's Surrey with anti-India graffiti for the 3rd time in a row</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/21/uyISSLZpZlJcZuqlsbMo.png" alt=" 'Khalistani extremism': Hindu temple vandalised in Canada's Surrey with anti-India graffiti for the 3rd time in a row Photograph: (X) ">
Just a day after the vandalism of a Gurudwara in Canada's Vancouver, a Hindu temple, Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey, was defaced by pro-Khalistan graffiti. This was in a series of alarming anti-India incidents in Canada.&nbsp;
Watch |&nbsp;Five killed as cloudburst hits Ramban, snow in higher reaches of J&amp;K and Ladakh
<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/2104_WION_J_K_FLOOD_8AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2104_WION_J_K_FLOOD_8AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=157&amp;tags=wion, wion news, world news, world news latest, viral" title="India: Five killed as cloudburst hits Ramban, snow in higher reaches of J&amp;K and Ladakh" id="PL_iframe_block-m9qk3gjs-zi7jxfiz-4abmdp4r"></iframe>

Good morning! Satrt your day with WION's morning news brief.

In a new update on the Signal group chat leak, reports are that Donald Trump's defence secretary, Pete Hegseth, had shared a piece of detailed information about the military strike on Yemen in March with his wife. Hegseth's other family members, such as his brother and about a dozen other people, were also part of the group chat created by him for the planned attacks by the US. United States Vice President JD Vance has embarked on his first official visit to India after assuming office. He is estimated to reach the Indian capital by 9:30 AM IST, according to the White House Press Pool. Vance is scheduled to meet PM Narendra Modi at his residence 7, Lok Kalyan Marg. Just a day after the vandalism of a Gurudwara in Canada's Vancouver, a Hindu temple, Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey, was defaced by pro-Khalistan graffiti. This was in a series of alarming anti-India incidents in Canada. Click on the headlines to read more Signal group chat leak: Trump's defence secretary Hegseth 'shared' details of Yemen attack with his wife and family In a new update on the Signal group chat leak, reports are that Donald Trump's defence secretary, Pete Hegseth, had shared a piece of detailed information about the military strike on Yemen in March with his wife. JD Vance's India visit: Delhi traffic police releases advisory, CHECK suggested routes and diversions United States Vice President JD Vance has embarked on his first official visit to India after assuming office. He is estimated to reach the Indian capital by 9:30 AM IST, according to the White House Press Pool. Trump names 8 ways countries are ‘cheating’ US on trade: Here’s the full list US President Donald Trump on Sunday (April 20) shared a list of what he described as ‘non-tariff cheating’ practices, warning that certain trade behaviours could harm relationships with the United States. 'Khalistani extremism': Hindu temple vandalised in Canada's Surrey with anti-India graffiti for the 3rd time in a row Just a day after the vandalism of a Gurudwara in Canada's Vancouver, a Hindu temple, Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey, was defaced by pro-Khalistan graffiti. This was in a series of alarming anti-India incidents in Canada. Watch | Five killed as cloudburst hits Ramban, snow in higher reaches of J&K and Ladakh

Morning news brief: JD Vance visits India; updates on Signal group chat leak, and more

Just a day after the vandalism of a Gurudwara in Canada's Vancouver, a Hindu temple, Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey, was defaced by pro-Khalistan graffiti. This was in a series of alarming anti-India incidents in Canada.&nbsp;
Photos and videos shared on the internet showed the temple walls sprayed with pro-Khalistan slogans.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-summons-uk-diplomat-after-pro-khalistani-man-breached-security-during-jaishankars-london-visit-8829404">India summons UK diplomat after pro-Khalistani man breached security during Jaishankar's London visit</a>
Daniel Bordman, a journalist at The National Telegraph, visited the temple and talked to the management. As per the temple officials, two people came around 3 in the morning and stole the security cameras around the temple before vandalising it. He reported that not only did the vandalisers spray graffiti, but they also damaged the property.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9qj7wor-53z41a6o-pzjgm2qk">
I went to the Lakshmi Mandir in Surrey that was vandalized last night by Khalistanis. This is the 3rd time it has been vandalized. I spoke to management and the devotees and they do not feel like the police or the political establishment cares at all. <a href="https://t.co/xfppoSTHf4">pic.twitter.com/xfppoSTHf4</a>
&mdash; Daniel Bordman (@DanielBordmanOG) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanielBordmanOG/status/1914055840711278700?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/happy-passia-responsible-for-terror-attack-in-punjab-arrested-by-fbi-who-is-he-8974935">Happy Passia, accused of collaborating with ISI and Khalistan, arrested by FBI: Who is he?</a>
The management of the temple told Bordman that the Hindu community that worships at the temple were upset by the increasing attacks, and they also think that the Canadian government is not on their side. He said the community believes that neither the Canadian Police nor any officials are not their side&nbsp;
This is the third time the temple has been vandalised by pro-Khalistanis.&nbsp;
<h2>'Reminder of the growing influence of Khalistani extremism'</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rings-alarm-bells-over-growing-khalistan-issue-to-new-zealand-8862638">India flags growing activities of anti-India Khalistani elements in New Zealand</a>
Criticising the vandalism, the Indian-origin Canadian Member of Parliament Chandra Arya called the incident &ldquo;yet another chilling reminder of the growing influence of Khalistani extremism.&rdquo;&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9qj7kql-bjqeqvbc-1ndxmqz3">
The attacks on Hindu temples that began several years ago continue unabated today &mdash; this latest graffiti on the Hindu temple is yet another chilling reminder of the growing influence of Khalistani extremism. Well-organized, well-funded, and backed by significant political clout,&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/0WfQdGgoNm">https://t.co/0WfQdGgoNm</a>
&mdash; Chandra Arya (@AryaCanada) <a href="https://twitter.com/AryaCanada/status/1914019965608595626?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-hindu-temple-vandalised-in-us-with-anti-india-graffiti-ahead-of-khalistani-referendum-8835595">Another Hindu temple vandalised in US with anti-India graffiti ahead of 'Khalistani referendum'</a>
Arya took to the social media platform X and said, &ldquo;The attacks on Hindu temples that began several years ago continue unabated today, this latest graffiti on the Hindu temple is yet another chilling reminder of the growing influence of Khalistani extremism."&nbsp;

World | Daniel Bordman, a journalist at The National Telegraph, visited the temple and talked to the management. As per the temple officials, two people came around 3 in the morning and stole the security cameras around the temple before vandalising it.

Just a day after the vandalism of a Gurudwara in Canada's Vancouver, a Hindu temple, Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey, was defaced by pro-Khalistan graffiti. This was in a series of alarming anti-India incidents in Canada. Photos and videos shared on the internet showed the temple walls sprayed with pro-Khalistan slogans. Also read: India summons UK diplomat after pro-Khalistani man breached security during Jaishankar's London visit Daniel Bordman, a journalist at The National Telegraph, visited the temple and talked to the management. As per the temple officials, two people came around 3 in the morning and stole the security cameras around the temple before vandalising it. He reported that not only did the vandalisers spray graffiti, but they also damaged the property. I went to the Lakshmi Mandir in Surrey that was vandalized last night by Khalistanis. This is the 3rd time it has been vandalized. I spoke to management and the devotees and they do not feel like the police or the political establishment cares at all. pic.twitter.com/xfppoSTHf4 — Daniel Bordman (@DanielBordmanOG) April 20, 2025 Also read: Happy Passia, accused of collaborating with ISI and Khalistan, arrested by FBI: Who is he? The management of the temple told Bordman that the Hindu community that worships at the temple were upset by the increasing attacks, and they also think that the Canadian government is not on their side. He said the community believes that neither the Canadian Police nor any officials are not their side This is the third time the temple has been vandalised by pro-Khalistanis. 'Reminder of the growing influence of Khalistani extremism' Also read: India flags growing activities of anti-India Khalistani elements in New Zealand Criticising the vandalism, the Indian-origin Canadian Member of Parliament Chandra Arya called the incident “yet another chilling reminder of the growing influence of Khalistani extremism.” The attacks on Hindu temples that began several years ago continue unabated today — this latest graffiti on the Hindu temple is yet another chilling reminder of the growing influence of Khalistani extremism. Well-organized, well-funded, and backed by significant political clout,… https://t.co/0WfQdGgoNm — Chandra Arya (@AryaCanada) April 20, 2025 Also read: Another Hindu temple vandalised in US with anti-India graffiti ahead of 'Khalistani referendum' Arya took to the social media platform X and said, “The attacks on Hindu temples that began several years ago continue unabated today, this latest graffiti on the Hindu temple is yet another chilling reminder of the growing influence of Khalistani extremism."

'Khalistani extremism': Hindu temple vandalised in Canada's Surrey with anti-India graffiti for the 3rd time in a row

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/signal-group-chat-leak-trumps-defense-secretary-hegseth-shared-details-of-yemen-attack-with-his-wife-and-family-8983897" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump</a> on Sunday (April 20) shared a list of what he described as &lsquo;non-tariff cheating&rsquo; practices, warning that certain trade behaviours could harm relationships with the United States. The list, made up of eight points, targeted issues like currency manipulation, counterfeiting, and transshipping.
<h2>The eight 'cheating' tactics named by Trump</h2>
In his post, Trump listed eight practices he claims give other countries an unfair advantage in trade. These include:
<ol>
<li>Currency manipulation</li>
<li>Value-Added Taxes (VATs) which, he says, act like tariffs and export subsidies</li>
<li>Selling goods below production cost (known as dumping)</li>
<li>Export subsidies and other state-backed financial support</li>
<li>Strict agricultural and technical standards that block foreign goods</li>
<li>Counterfeiting and piracy</li>
<li>Intellectual property theft</li>
<li>Transshipping goods to avoid tariffs</li>
</ol>
Trump has repeatedly taken issue with what he considers hidden tariffs or export boosts. He argues that practices like currency devaluation and VAT refunds on exports put US producers at a disadvantage.
<h2>The 'bowling ball test' in Japan</h2>
Trump has long accused certain countries of using underhanded methods to undercut American exporters. One of his recurring criticisms involves how Japan allegedly tests the strength of foreign cars.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-makes-historic-port-call-at-china-controlled-cambodia-naval-base-america-raises-alarms-8983474/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-makes-historic-port-call-at-china-controlled-cambodia-naval-base-america-raises-alarms-8983474/embed</a>
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s the bowling ball test. They take a bowling ball from 20 feet up in the air and drop it on the hood of the car,&rdquo; Trump said, repeating a claim he originally made in 2018. &ldquo;If the hood dents, the car doesn&rsquo;t qualify. It&rsquo;s horrible.&rdquo;
<h2>90-day tariff pause for most, but not China</h2>
Trump&rsquo;s post came just days after he announced a 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs for most US trade partners, with China being the notable exception. Speaking at the Oval Office last Thursday, the president confirmed talks with Beijing were ongoing. &ldquo;Yeah, we're talking to China. I would say they have reached out a number of times,&rdquo; Trump told reporters. He also said he was confident that an agreement would be reached.

World: Trump has repeatedly taken issue with what he considers hidden tariffs or export boosts. He argues that practices like currency devaluation and VAT refunds on exports put US producers at a disadvantage.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (April 20) shared a list of what he described as ‘non-tariff cheating’ practices, warning that certain trade behaviours could harm relationships with the United States. The list, made up of eight points, targeted issues like currency manipulation, counterfeiting, and transshipping. The eight 'cheating' tactics named by Trump In his post, Trump listed eight practices he claims give other countries an unfair advantage in trade. These include: Currency manipulation Value-Added Taxes (VATs) which, he says, act like tariffs and export subsidies Selling goods below production cost (known as dumping) Export subsidies and other state-backed financial support Strict agricultural and technical standards that block foreign goods Counterfeiting and piracy Intellectual property theft Transshipping goods to avoid tariffs Trump has repeatedly taken issue with what he considers hidden tariffs or export boosts. He argues that practices like currency devaluation and VAT refunds on exports put US producers at a disadvantage. The 'bowling ball test' in Japan Trump has long accused certain countries of using underhanded methods to undercut American exporters. One of his recurring criticisms involves how Japan allegedly tests the strength of foreign cars. https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-makes-historic-port-call-at-china-controlled-cambodia-naval-base-america-raises-alarms-8983474/embed “It’s the bowling ball test. They take a bowling ball from 20 feet up in the air and drop it on the hood of the car,” Trump said, repeating a claim he originally made in 2018. “If the hood dents, the car doesn’t qualify. It’s horrible.” 90-day tariff pause for most, but not China Trump’s post came just days after he announced a 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs for most US trade partners, with China being the notable exception. Speaking at the Oval Office last Thursday, the president confirmed talks with Beijing were ongoing. “Yeah, we're talking to China. I would say they have reached out a number of times,” Trump told reporters. He also said he was confident that an agreement would be reached.

Trump names 8 ways countries are ‘cheating’ US on trade: Here’s the full list

In a new update on the Signal group chat leak, reports are that Donald Trump's defence secretary, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobody-was-texting-war-plans-hegseth-denies-texting-yemen-war-plans-calls-journalist-deceitful-8887113">Pete Hegseth</a>, had shared a piece of detailed information about the military strike on Yemen in March with his wife. Hegseth's other family members, such as his brother and about a dozen other people, were also part of the group chat created by him for the planned attacks by the US.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-he-wont-fire-anyone-involved-in-signal-group-chat-as-its-witch-hunt-fake-news-8905633">Trump says he won't fire anyone involved in Signal group chat as it is 'witch hunt', 'fake news'</a>
Hegseth shared the information in his own separate group chat, The New York Times reported, and The Guardian confirmed.&nbsp;
As per the sources familiar with the matter, Hegseth shared some of the same information in his chat that he also shared with another Signal group of top officials that was created by Mike Waltz. Among the shared information, Hegseth sent details of the F/A-18 Hornets that would strike Houthi rebel targets in Yemen.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/green-light-on-yemen-raid-snl-mocks-trump-administration-signal-chat-leak-scandal-watch-8908044">&lsquo;Green light on Yemen raid!&rsquo; SNL mocks Trump administration Signal chat leak scandal | WATCH</a>
The Signal group chat came into headlines last month, where it was found that Donald Trump's national security advisor, Mike Waltz, had created a group on the messaging app in which detailed attack plans were divulged by Hegseth and other US administration officials. The group was exposed by the American journalist &nbsp;Jeffrey Goldberg, who was accidentally added to the group by Waltz.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-reiterates-plans-to-get-greenland-says-should-not-talk-about-signal-chat-leak-during-interview-8907150">Trump reiterates plans to get Greenland, says &lsquo;should not talk about&rsquo; Signal chat leak during interview</a>
According to the Times, the private chat by Hegseth also included two senior advisers of the US defence secretary &ndash; Dan Caldwell and Darin Selnick &ndash; who were fired last week after being accused of leaking unauthorised information.
Meanwhile, a video is resurfacing on the internet in which Hegseth said that Biden needs to be held accountable for &ldquo;handling classified documents flippantly.&rdquo;&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9qmfdyq-ruu1h96t-qy9suhq2">
In a newly resurfaced video from 2023, Pete Hegseth said that Biden needs to be held accountable for &ldquo;handling classified documents flippantly.&rdquo; Now, Hegseth has leaked classified info in TWO separate Signal group chats. Irony strikes again. <a href="https://t.co/GOLb6uEMhL">pic.twitter.com/GOLb6uEMhL</a>
&mdash; Harry Sisson (@harryjsisson) <a href="https://twitter.com/harryjsisson/status/1914114759869292613?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-china-could-have-gotten-democrat-warns-of-possible-deaths-due-to-signal-chat-leak-8894449">&lsquo;Russia, China could have gotten...&rsquo;: Democrat warns of possible deaths due to Signal chat leak</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World | Hegseth's other family members, such as his brother and about a dozen other people, were also part of the group chat created by him for the planned attacks by the US.

In a new update on the Signal group chat leak, reports are that Donald Trump's defence secretary, Pete Hegseth, had shared a piece of detailed information about the military strike on Yemen in March with his wife. Hegseth's other family members, such as his brother and about a dozen other people, were also part of the group chat created by him for the planned attacks by the US. Also read: Trump says he won't fire anyone involved in Signal group chat as it is 'witch hunt', 'fake news' Hegseth shared the information in his own separate group chat, The New York Times reported, and The Guardian confirmed. As per the sources familiar with the matter, Hegseth shared some of the same information in his chat that he also shared with another Signal group of top officials that was created by Mike Waltz. Among the shared information, Hegseth sent details of the F/A-18 Hornets that would strike Houthi rebel targets in Yemen. Also read: ‘Green light on Yemen raid!’ SNL mocks Trump administration Signal chat leak scandal | WATCH The Signal group chat came into headlines last month, where it was found that Donald Trump's national security advisor, Mike Waltz, had created a group on the messaging app in which detailed attack plans were divulged by Hegseth and other US administration officials. The group was exposed by the American journalist Jeffrey Goldberg, who was accidentally added to the group by Waltz. Also read: Trump reiterates plans to get Greenland, says ‘should not talk about’ Signal chat leak during interview According to the Times, the private chat by Hegseth also included two senior advisers of the US defence secretary – Dan Caldwell and Darin Selnick – who were fired last week after being accused of leaking unauthorised information. Meanwhile, a video is resurfacing on the internet in which Hegseth said that Biden needs to be held accountable for “handling classified documents flippantly.” In a newly resurfaced video from 2023, Pete Hegseth said that Biden needs to be held accountable for “handling classified documents flippantly.” Now, Hegseth has leaked classified info in TWO separate Signal group chats. Irony strikes again. pic.twitter.com/GOLb6uEMhL — Harry Sisson (@harryjsisson) April 21, 2025 Also read: ‘Russia, China could have gotten...’: Democrat warns of possible deaths due to Signal chat leak (With inputs from agencies)

Signal group chat leak: Trump's defence secretary Hegseth 'shared' details of Yemen attack with his wife and family

Russian President Vladimir Putin's surprise announcement of a one-day Easter ceasefire in Ukraine may have been a strategic move to placate US President Donald Trump, suggest experts.&nbsp;
The truce came as the Trump administration in recent days expressed its mounting frustration with Moscow's stance in ongoing peace talks.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-accuse-each-other-of-violating-putins-easter-truce-third-religious-holiday-ceasefire-failure-in-three-years-8982758">Russia, Ukraine accuse each other of violating Putin's Easter truce; third religious holiday ceasefire failure in three years?</a>
<h2>Putin's casefire</h2>
The Russian president's ceasefire, supposed to last 30 hours was to begin Saturday (Apr 19). It came just after Washington warned it could walk away from negotiations unless both Russia and Ukraine showed a serious commitment to negotiating a truce.
According to Maria Snegovaya, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), the truce was less about genuine peace and more about placating Trump.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-no-longer-holds-zelensky-responsible-for-russia-ukraine-war-reveals-mineral-deal-to-be-signed-next-thursday-kyiv-and-washington-sign-memorandum-of-intent-8974360">Trump no longer holds Zelensky 'responsible' for Russia-Ukraine war as Kyiv and Washington sign 'Memorandum of Intent'</a>
Talking to Reuters, Snegovaya said: What does US stepping away mean? "Does it mean that there will be more sanctions on Russia? Does it mean that Ukraine will keep receiving lethal aid coming from U.S. side?"
"All of that is unclear. Potentially that's the sort of stick that may have made the trick, pushing Putin into towards a little bit more of the reconciliatory mode," she noted.
<h2>Zelensky's supposed reasoning for truce&nbsp;</h2>
Meanwhile, Ambassador Ian Kelly of Northwestern University suggests that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wants to keep the US engaged because "His nation is very, very tired and really wants peace".
Zelenksy while slamming Putin and remarking that Moscow cannot be trusted proposed an extended 30-day truce &mdash; suggested by Trump earlier.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-dismisses-vladimir-putins-easter-truce-labels-it-another-attempt-to-play-with-human-lives-russia-ukraine-war-8980598">Zelensky dismisses Putin's Easter truce as 'another attempt to play with human lives'</a>
Last month, Ukraine agreed to Trump's 30-day truce proposal, but Russia rejected it. The sides later agreed to limited pauses &mdash; targeting energy infrastructure and maritime areas &mdash; though both have since accused each other of violating those arrangements.
"He's definitely invested in this whole process. And I think, by saying let's do a 30-day proposal he's just basically reminding the Americans that they've already agreed to this, and putting Putin in the box of being the bad guy," noted Kelly a former ambassador to Georgia.
&nbsp;

Discover insights into Putin's surprising Easter ceasefire in Ukraine, potentially aimed at placating Trump amidst rising US frustrations with Moscow's peace talk stance.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's surprise announcement of a one-day Easter ceasefire in Ukraine may have been a strategic move to placate US President Donald Trump, suggest experts. The truce came as the Trump administration in recent days expressed its mounting frustration with Moscow's stance in ongoing peace talks. Also read | Russia, Ukraine accuse each other of violating Putin's Easter truce; third religious holiday ceasefire failure in three years? Putin's casefire The Russian president's ceasefire, supposed to last 30 hours was to begin Saturday (Apr 19). It came just after Washington warned it could walk away from negotiations unless both Russia and Ukraine showed a serious commitment to negotiating a truce. According to Maria Snegovaya, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), the truce was less about genuine peace and more about placating Trump. Also read | Trump no longer holds Zelensky 'responsible' for Russia-Ukraine war as Kyiv and Washington sign 'Memorandum of Intent' Talking to Reuters, Snegovaya said: What does US stepping away mean? "Does it mean that there will be more sanctions on Russia? Does it mean that Ukraine will keep receiving lethal aid coming from U.S. side?" "All of that is unclear. Potentially that's the sort of stick that may have made the trick, pushing Putin into towards a little bit more of the reconciliatory mode," she noted. Zelensky's supposed reasoning for truce Meanwhile, Ambassador Ian Kelly of Northwestern University suggests that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wants to keep the US engaged because "His nation is very, very tired and really wants peace". Zelenksy while slamming Putin and remarking that Moscow cannot be trusted proposed an extended 30-day truce — suggested by Trump earlier. Also read | Zelensky dismisses Putin's Easter truce as 'another attempt to play with human lives' Last month, Ukraine agreed to Trump's 30-day truce proposal, but Russia rejected it. The sides later agreed to limited pauses — targeting energy infrastructure and maritime areas — though both have since accused each other of violating those arrangements. "He's definitely invested in this whole process. And I think, by saying let's do a 30-day proposal he's just basically reminding the Americans that they've already agreed to this, and putting Putin in the box of being the bad guy," noted Kelly a former ambassador to Georgia.

Russia-Ukraine war: Was Putin's Easter truce just an attempt to appease Trump?

Turkey has banned elective Caesarian-section births at private healthcare facilities without medical necessity. The new health ministry regulations published in the Official Gazette on Saturday (Apr 19) aim to encourage natural births across the country.
The move, which came following a heated debate in Turkey over how women should give birth, has sparked fury of reactions from opposition politicians and rights groups.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/teenage-girls-were-victims-of-human-sacrifice-ritual-5000-years-ago-8903772">Teenage girls were victims of human sacrifice ritual in Turkey 5,000 years ago</a>
&ldquo;Planned Caesarean sections cannot be performed in a medical centre,&rdquo; said an April 19 gazette entry outlining new regulations governing private healthcare institutions. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been pushing hard for women to have natural births.
Among the 38 nations under the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), Turkey has the highest rate of C-section births, reported AFP, citing data from 2021. According to data from the World Population Review, out of every 1,000 live births, 584 were C-sections in that year.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/botched-ivf-leads-australian-woman-to-give-birth-to-another-womans-baby-8950401">Horrific IVF mix-up leads Australian woman to give birth to stranger's baby</a>
<h2>&lsquo;Hands off&rsquo;</h2>
Gokce Gokcen, deputy chair of the main opposition CHP wrote on X, &ldquo;As if the country had no other problems, male football players are telling women how to give birth.&rdquo;
&ldquo;Don&rsquo;t interfere in women&rsquo;s affairs with your ignorance.. Keep your hands off women&rsquo;s bodies,&rdquo; she wrote.
In January, Erdogan declared that 2025 would be the &ldquo;year of the family&rdquo; in an attempt to address the declining fertility rate in the country, which hit a record low of 1.51 in 2023. He repeatedly suggested women should have at least three children.&nbsp;
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/meghan-markle-reveals-scary-medical-condition-after-giving-birth-8942396">Meghan Markle reveals 'scary' medical condition after giving birth</a>
Last week, at the start of a Super Lig football clash, Sivassapor players walked onto the pitch carrying a huge banners promoting vaginal births, reading: &ldquo;Natural birth is natural&rdquo;. The move sparked a heated reaction from politicians, doctors and women&rsquo;s rights organisations.
On Saturday (Apr 19), Erdogan slammed those who opposed the football banner.
&ldquo;One of our football clubs took to the field with a banner to support an awareness campaign by the health ministry,&rdquo; he said.
Watch | Turkey: CHP Chairman Ozgur Ozel vows to fight against Erdogan
<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/1104_WION_MAYOR_730AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1104_WION_MAYOR_730AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=114&amp;tags=istanbul, turkey, erdogan , opposition" title="Turkey: CHP Chairman Ozgur Ozel vows to fight against Erdogan" id="PL_iframe_block-m9pyz8nd-95ovx17w-7gco9hls"></iframe>
&ldquo;There was no insult, no criticism, no disrespect to anyone on the banner, nothing to offend women... Why does it bother you that our ministry encourages normal birth?
&ldquo;We have no time for such nonsense at a time when our fertility rate and population growth rate are causing alarm,&rdquo; he said, adding that the declining population of Turkey was &ldquo;a threat much more significant than war&rdquo;.

The move, which came following a heated debate in Turkey over how women should give birth, has sparked fury of reactions from opposition politicians and rights groups. World

Turkey has banned elective Caesarian-section births at private healthcare facilities without medical necessity. The new health ministry regulations published in the Official Gazette on Saturday (Apr 19) aim to encourage natural births across the country. The move, which came following a heated debate in Turkey over how women should give birth, has sparked fury of reactions from opposition politicians and rights groups. Also read | Teenage girls were victims of human sacrifice ritual in Turkey 5,000 years ago “Planned Caesarean sections cannot be performed in a medical centre,” said an April 19 gazette entry outlining new regulations governing private healthcare institutions. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been pushing hard for women to have natural births. Among the 38 nations under the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), Turkey has the highest rate of C-section births, reported AFP, citing data from 2021. According to data from the World Population Review, out of every 1,000 live births, 584 were C-sections in that year. Also read | Horrific IVF mix-up leads Australian woman to give birth to stranger's baby ‘Hands off’ Gokce Gokcen, deputy chair of the main opposition CHP wrote on X, “As if the country had no other problems, male football players are telling women how to give birth.” “Don’t interfere in women’s affairs with your ignorance.. Keep your hands off women’s bodies,” she wrote. In January, Erdogan declared that 2025 would be the “year of the family” in an attempt to address the declining fertility rate in the country, which hit a record low of 1.51 in 2023. He repeatedly suggested women should have at least three children. Also read | Meghan Markle reveals 'scary' medical condition after giving birth Last week, at the start of a Super Lig football clash, Sivassapor players walked onto the pitch carrying a huge banners promoting vaginal births, reading: “Natural birth is natural”. The move sparked a heated reaction from politicians, doctors and women’s rights organisations. On Saturday (Apr 19), Erdogan slammed those who opposed the football banner. “One of our football clubs took to the field with a banner to support an awareness campaign by the health ministry,” he said. Watch | Turkey: CHP Chairman Ozgur Ozel vows to fight against Erdogan “There was no insult, no criticism, no disrespect to anyone on the banner, nothing to offend women... Why does it bother you that our ministry encourages normal birth? “We have no time for such nonsense at a time when our fertility rate and population growth rate are causing alarm,” he said, adding that the declining population of Turkey was “a threat much more significant than war”.

Turkey bans elective C-section births, sparking outrage from rights groups, opposition: ‘Keep your hands off women’s bodies’

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), on Sunday (Apr 20), admitted a failure in reporting an incident where its troops killed 15 Gaza medics and rescuers last month.&nbsp;
In other news, Russia and Ukraine accused each other of violating the 30-hour Easter truce on Sunday (Ap 20).
Meanwhile, a former Tesla employee claimed Elon Musk is "pure evil" and was fired by him after raising safety concerns regarding Tesla cars.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-army-accepts-failure-in-fully-reporting-on-gaza-medics-killing-8982921">Israeli military accepts 'failure in fully' reporting on Gaza medics' killing</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/18/vfMNFSYQvhDJG5UN7K0P.png" alt=" Ambulances were seen racing out of and past Nasser Hospital in Gaza&rsquo;s Khan Younis on Tuesday Photograph: (Reuters) ">
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), on Sunday (Apr 20), acknowledged a failure in reporting an incident where its troops killed 15 Gaza medics and rescuers last month.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-accuse-each-other-of-violating-putins-easter-truce-third-religious-holiday-ceasefire-failure-in-three-years-8982758">Russia, Ukraine accuse each other of violating Putin's Easter truce; third religious holiday ceasefire failure in three years?</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/20/bmhqi9SgpedsAL2G8oym.png" alt=" File Photo: Volodymyr Zelensky, Vladimir Putin Photograph: (AFP) ">
Russia and Ukraine on Sunday (Ap 20) accused each other of violating the fragile 30-hour Easter truce announced by Russian President Vladimir Putin the previous day.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/tesla-whistleblower-makes-explosive-claims-against-musk-calls-him-a-vindictive-monster-and-pure-evil-says-doge-chief-fired-her-because-she-raised-safety-concerns-about-tesla-cars-8982522" rel="dofollow">Tesla whistleblower makes explosive claims against Musk, calls him a 'vindictive monster' and 'pure evil' because...</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/20/siVDmexJrezBn1CIKgmO.png" alt=" File Photo: Elon Musk, Tesla Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Elon Musk is "pure evil" claims a Tesla whistleblower. Former Tesla employee and engineer Cristina Balan claims that she was fired by US President Donald Trump's advisor after raising safety concerns regarding Tesla cars.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-greets-crowds-delegates-easter-mass-service-to-high-ranking-cardinal-8982447">Pope Francis greets crowds, delegates Easter Mass service to high-ranking cardinal</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/20/uIJaCajy8DTzrJ7tP0nW.jpg" alt=" Pope Francis makes a brief appearance at the Easter Mass at St. Peter&rsquo;s Square in Vatican City on Sunday. Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Pope Francis made a brief appearance for Easter Sunday blessing at the Vatican&rsquo;s St. Peter&rsquo;s Square, as the 88-year-old pontiff recovers from a serious bout of double pneumonia that led to an extended stay in the hospital.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beg-our-government-to-stop-war-families-of-hostages-take-to-gaza-border-plead-for-safe-return-of-loved-ones-8983098">'Beg our government to stop war': Families of hostages take to Gaza border, plead for safe return of loved ones</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/20/DcMDjk32RikkVJhLaGMa.jpg" alt=" Hostages families take to Gaza border to call out to loved ones held captive Photograph: (Reuters) ">
The families of Israeli hostages held in Gaza, on Sunday (Apr 20), staged a protest near the border, calling for a deal to secure the release of the 59 hostages believed to still be in Hamas' captivity.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/murder-spree-continues-assam-man-beheads-wife-carries-severed-head-to-police-8982850">Murder spree continues: Assam man beheads wife, carries severed head to police</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/23/kVsH7KUjmanl5N6CTlUh.png" alt=" Representative image of a crime scene. Photograph: (Pexels- Kat Wilcox) ">
In a harrowing incident, a 60-year-old man allegedly beheaded his wife during an argument in front of their daughters. After committing the gruesome act, which took place in Assam's Chirang, the man reportedly took her severed head to the Ballamguri Police patrolling point to surrender.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-engines-no-tail-new-video-showing-chinas-mysterious-tailless-triple-engine-fighter-jet-fuels-speculation-8982757">Three engines, no tail: New video showing China&rsquo;s mysterious tailless, triple-engine fighter jet fuels speculation</a>
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China, in a move to dominate the future of aerial warfare, recently unveiled two sixth-generation stealth fighter prototypes.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hindu-minister-in-pakistan-attacked-during-protest-in-sindh-pm-shehbaz-sharif-vows-action-8982695">Hindu minister in Pakistan attacked during protest in Sindh; govt vows probe, action</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/20/IP4X1zUXEfgazf5YEXfn.jpg" alt=" Kheal Das Kohistani, a Hindu, who is state minister for religious affairs in Pakistan was attacked in Sindh by protesters. Photograph: (X/@KesooMalKheealD) ">
A Hindu minister in Pakistan, Kheal Das Kohistani, was attacked in Sindh by protesters opposing the government&rsquo;s irrigation canal projects. Kheal Das Kohistani, a state minister for religious affairs in Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif&rsquo;s cabinet, was attacked with tomatoes and potatoes in Sindh on Saturday by protesters opposing the federal government&rsquo;s proposed canal projects, which critics say will reduce the southern province&rsquo;s share of irrigation water.&nbsp;
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Former Indian captain, Mohammed Azharuddin is ready to drag the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) to court after the Ombudsman ordered the removal of his name from the North Stand at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-virat-kohli-krunal-pandya-power-rcb-to-beat-punjab-kings-in-return-leg-enter-top-three-8982952">IPL 2025: Kohli, Krunal power RCB to beat Punjab Kings in return leg, enter top three</a>
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Virat Kohli hit an unbeaten 73 as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) avenged their last game&rsquo;s loss against Punjab Kings with a comfortable seven-wicket win over the hosts in IPL 2025 on Sunday. Playing at Mullanpur in New Chandigarh, RCB won their fifth away game this season, climbing to the third spot on the points table with ten points from eight contested matches.

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The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), on Sunday (Apr 20), admitted a failure in reporting an incident where its troops killed 15 Gaza medics and rescuers last month. In other news, Russia and Ukraine accused each other of violating the 30-hour Easter truce on Sunday (Ap 20). Meanwhile, a former Tesla employee claimed Elon Musk is "pure evil" and was fired by him after raising safety concerns regarding Tesla cars. Click on the headlines for more Israeli military accepts 'failure in fully' reporting on Gaza medics' killing The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), on Sunday (Apr 20), acknowledged a failure in reporting an incident where its troops killed 15 Gaza medics and rescuers last month. Russia, Ukraine accuse each other of violating Putin's Easter truce; third religious holiday ceasefire failure in three years? Russia and Ukraine on Sunday (Ap 20) accused each other of violating the fragile 30-hour Easter truce announced by Russian President Vladimir Putin the previous day. Tesla whistleblower makes explosive claims against Musk, calls him a 'vindictive monster' and 'pure evil' because... Elon Musk is "pure evil" claims a Tesla whistleblower. Former Tesla employee and engineer Cristina Balan claims that she was fired by US President Donald Trump's advisor after raising safety concerns regarding Tesla cars. Pope Francis greets crowds, delegates Easter Mass service to high-ranking cardinal Pope Francis made a brief appearance for Easter Sunday blessing at the Vatican’s St. Peter’s Square, as the 88-year-old pontiff recovers from a serious bout of double pneumonia that led to an extended stay in the hospital. 'Beg our government to stop war': Families of hostages take to Gaza border, plead for safe return of loved ones The families of Israeli hostages held in Gaza, on Sunday (Apr 20), staged a protest near the border, calling for a deal to secure the release of the 59 hostages believed to still be in Hamas' captivity. Murder spree continues: Assam man beheads wife, carries severed head to police In a harrowing incident, a 60-year-old man allegedly beheaded his wife during an argument in front of their daughters. After committing the gruesome act, which took place in Assam's Chirang, the man reportedly took her severed head to the Ballamguri Police patrolling point to surrender. Three engines, no tail: New video showing China’s mysterious tailless, triple-engine fighter jet fuels speculation China, in a move to dominate the future of aerial warfare, recently unveiled two sixth-generation stealth fighter prototypes. Hindu minister in Pakistan attacked during protest in Sindh; govt vows probe, action A Hindu minister in Pakistan, Kheal Das Kohistani, was attacked in Sindh by protesters opposing the government’s irrigation canal projects. Kheal Das Kohistani, a state minister for religious affairs in Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s cabinet, was attacked with tomatoes and potatoes in Sindh on Saturday by protesters opposing the federal government’s proposed canal projects, which critics say will reduce the southern province’s share of irrigation water. 'Crooks are pointing fingers at me,' Mohammad Azharuddin challenges HCA stand order Former Indian captain, Mohammed Azharuddin is ready to drag the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) to court after the Ombudsman ordered the removal of his name from the North Stand at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. IPL 2025: Kohli, Krunal power RCB to beat Punjab Kings in return leg, enter top three Virat Kohli hit an unbeaten 73 as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) avenged their last game’s loss against Punjab Kings with a comfortable seven-wicket win over the hosts in IPL 2025 on Sunday. Playing at Mullanpur in New Chandigarh, RCB won their fifth away game this season, climbing to the third spot on the points table with ten points from eight contested matches.

Top 10 world news: Israel admits 'failure' in reporting Gaza medics' killing; Russia-Ukraine violate Easter truce, and more

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