Pope Leo XIV urged Monaco’s billionaires to utilise their wealth for the needy during his historic visit, the first papal trip in nearly 500 years. Emphasising the duty to address inequality, he called on locals to leverage their unique influence for good.

Twelve US soldiers were injured after an Iranian missile strike on Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia. The attack not only caused serious injuries but also damaged American aircraft. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated a resolution may come in weeks, not months.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of dishonesty regarding US demands, asserting Zelenskyy misrepresented discussions about territorial concessions related to security guarantees. Rubio also indicated potential shifts in American military support, citing future needs related to Iran.

Kazakhstan has commenced construction of the $800 million Alatau Iconic Complex, set to transform the area near Almaty by 2029. Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the development will feature two striking towers and aims to become a major economic hub. Major excavation begins in May.

Moscow is reportedly supplying Tehran with drones and intelligence to target US military assets in the Middle East. Kallas urged the US, Israel, and Iran to negotiate a solution, stating that escalation could be avoided if pressure is applied on Russia to cease its support for Iran.

Scientists have for the first time detected cocaine in sharks off the Bahamas, according to a study published in Environmental Pollution. Two sharks tested positive for the drug, potentially linked to human sewage and tourism. Further research is needed to assess behavioural impacts.