Skip to main content

Featured

Peace Talks Falter as New Strikes Shake Ukraine

President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan receives the heads of delegations participating in the UAE hosted trilateral talks between the United States, Russia and Ukraine, Director of the Office of the President of Ukraine Kirill Budanov, United States Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Rustem Umerov, Chief of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Igor Kostyukov, and Jared Kushner at Al Shati Palace in Abu Dhabi. US‑mediated negotiations aimed at easing the war in Ukraine ended abruptly without an agreement after Russia launched a series of overnight airstrikes that hit multiple Ukrainian cities and energy facilities. The renewed bombardment intensified pressure on the talks, which had been viewed as a tentative step toward de‑escalation. Diplomats from both sides described the discussions as “constructive but inconclusive,” noting that major sticking points — in...

article

A Solemn Farewell: Pope Francis's Journey to St. Peter's Basilica

In a deeply moving ceremony, the body of Pope Francis was transported from his residence at the Santa Marta guesthouse to St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. The 88-year-old pontiff, who passed away two days ago, was carried in an open coffin by 14 pallbearers dressed in black suits and white gloves. The procession was accompanied by red-hatted cardinals, priests, and Swiss Guards, as a male choir chanted psalms and prayers in Latin.

Thousands of mourners gathered in St. Peter's Square, breaking into applause as the coffin passed—a traditional Italian gesture of respect. The bells of the basilica tolled solemnly, marking the end of Pope Francis's 12-year papacy, which was characterized by his progressive reforms and advocacy for inclusivity.

The late pope's body will lie in state at St. Peter's Basilica for three days, allowing the faithful to pay their respects before his funeral on Saturday. His final resting place will be the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, reflecting his humble wishes for a simpler ceremony.

Pope Francis's legacy as a compassionate and reformative leader continues to resonate with Catholics and admirers worldwide.

Comments