Lavish Bribes and Wooden Potties: A Short History of Conclaves

The upcoming conclave to elect a new pope is expected to be much shorter than the longest in history, which lasted nearly three years due to divisions among cardinals. Modern conclaves, generally lasting two to five days, follow established rules to ensure a swift transition. Current accommodations for cardinals are strained due to Pope Francis's appointments, leading some to stay in nearby buildings.

Columbia University lays off nearly 180 researchers due to Trump funding cuts

Columbia University announced layoffs of nearly 180 researchers due to the cancellation of federal grants by the Trump administration, citing antisemitic harassment on campus. The university is facing financial strain and will continue to seek restoration of funding. The administration had previously threatened to withhold billions more, affecting other institutions like Harvard, which is challenging the funding freeze.

Trump floats ‘marriage’ with Canada, PM Carney fires back: 'Not for sale' | White House meet

Trump and Carney met at the White House, discussing tense trade relations. Trump suggested a "marriage" with Canada, but Carney firmly responded, "Not for sale." They aim to maintain friendship despite economic disagreements and tariff challenges.

Billionaire hedge fund manager issues chilling stock market warning: ‘We'll probably go down’

Billionaire Paul Tudor Jones warns stock market will hit new lows due to ongoing tariffs, Fed's rate stance, and potential tax increases, predicting economic challenges despite potential tariff reductions by Trump.

Conclave to pick new pope begins on May 7. But who are the antipopes?

133 cardinals will gather in Vatican City on May 7 to elect Pope Francis's successor. An antipope is a competing papal claimant, historically causing church divisions during periods of political or doctrinal conflict, with the Western Schism being a notable example.

Donald Trump announces halt in Houthi ship attacks, US ceases bombing in Yemen

President Trump announced the US will halt bombings of Yemen's Houthi rebels, citing the group?s indication to cease attacks on Red Sea ships. Despite the Houthis not publicly confirming this, Trump described the situation as "very positive." This development coincides with ongoing US-Iran nuclear negotiations, with officials set to meet in Oman.

75 Indians, including 12 women, cleared to climb Mount Everest this season

As of Monday, Nepal's Department of Tourism has granted climbing permits to 441 climbers, including 79 women, from 55 countries for Mt. Everest this spring. The government has collected approximately Nepalese Rs 653.8 million in royalties. Over 8,000 climbers have summitted Everest, with many reaching base camp, as rope-fixing efforts continue for the ascent to the peak.

Tornado watch issued for 41 Texas counties; Check floods, severe thunderstorm warnings here

Tornado watch issued for 41 Texas counties through Tuesday at 4 p.m., covering areas from Austin to Houston. Potential for severe thunderstorms, large hail, damaging winds, and possible tornadoes. Residents advised to stay alert and prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.

What Conclave movie gets right and wrong about the real process of electing Pope

The film Conclave depicts the papal election process, showcasing cardinals from different regions voting in the Sistine Chapel. While capturing some authentic rituals, the movie takes dramatic liberties with secrecy rules, character interactions, and external information access during the conclave.

Israel fires on Yemen's Sanaa airport as tensions with Houthis intensify

The Israeli military launched strikes on Sanaa International Airport in Yemen, targeting civilian planes and infrastructure amid escalating tensions with Iran-aligned Houthi rebels. This follows recent Houthi missile attacks on Israel and Israel's retaliatory strikes in Yemen, resulting in casualties. The Houthis threaten to impose an aerial blockade on Israel, intensifying the conflict linked to the Gaza war.

Saudi Arabia, US to discuss deal in mining, mineral resources, cabinet says

Saudi Arabia plans to negotiate a cooperation agreement with the U.S. on mining and mineral resources, as announced by the Saudi cabinet. This comes ahead of President Trump's upcoming visit. The kingdom is expanding its mining sector as part of its Vision 2030 strategy, aiming to diversify from oil, with significant mineral reserves recently discovered.

Friedrich Merz becomes Germany's new Chancellor

Friedrich Merz clinched Germany's chancellorship after a second parliamentary vote, following an initial unsuccessful attempt. The leadership transition marks a significant moment in German political landscape.

Trump defends his AI-Generated Pope photo amid massive backlash, claims ‘I had nothing to do with it’

Trump defended an AI-generated photo of himself as Pope, claiming no involvement. Despite backlash from Catholics and political figures, he dismissed criticism as a joke, saying "you have to have a little fun" while the Vatican prepares for a papal conclave.

After Ukraine deal, US turns its critical minerals gaze to Africa: Andy Home

The U.S. is engaging in critical metals negotiations with the Democratic Republic of Congo in response to escalating conflict with Rwandan-backed M23 rebels. A potential peace deal could lead to bilateral minerals agreements, particularly concerning valuable resources in North and South Kivu. The situation remains complex, with various armed groups affecting mining operations and supply chains.

Why is GTA 6 delayed? Rockstar insider spills details as trailer 2 drops

Rockstar Games released GTA 6's second trailer, revealing characters Jason and Lucia. The game is delayed to May 2026, reportedly due to extensive online mode preparation, with developers focusing on seamless multiplayer infrastructure and avoiding launch issues.

Massive data breach: 19 billion passwords leaked—Here's how to protect yours

Massive data breach exposes 19 billion passwords, enabling potential cyberattacks. Experts urge immediate action: change passwords, use password managers, activate multi-factor authentication, and monitor accounts for suspicious activities.