'I still consider myself a missionary' - Pope Leo XIV in past interviews
Before becoming Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Robert Prevost shared rare insights on faith, unity, and modern challenges in a few candid interviews.
For the first time in history, an American has been chosen to lead the Catholic Church, as Cardinal Robert Prevost is named pope.
In a historic moment at the Vatican, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church—marking the first time an American has ascended to the papacy. The decision was confirmed when white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, a traditional signal that a consensus had been reached by the 133 cardinals gathered in conclave.
Prevost, originally from the United States, will now be known as Pope Leo XIV. His election was formally announced by Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti, who addressed the thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square with the iconic Latin phrase, “Habemus papam!” Moments later, Pope Leo XIV stepped onto the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and delivered his first words to the world: “Peace be with all of you!”
The announcement sparked jubilant celebrations across the square. Church bells rang out not only in Rome but in major cities across Europe, including Madrid and Barcelona. Pilgrims and clergy members rejoiced together as shouts of “Viva il papa!” echoed across the crowd. Many captured the historic moment on their phones, while others stood in tears or prayer.
Before his public appearance, Pope Leo XIV spent a private moment in the “Room of Tears,” where pontiffs traditionally prepare to assume the responsibilities of the papacy. The emotional weight of the moment was visible as he emerged wearing the papal vestments, ready to address a global audience for the first time.
The Pontifical Swiss Guard led a ceremonial procession through the square, accompanied by military bands in dress uniform. Senior clergy and non-voting cardinals, including Americans over the age of 80, assembled near the basilica to witness the announcement.
Reacting to the news from Washington, President Donald Trump commented briefly after attending an event at the White House. “I saw the smoke, but I haven’t seen the pope,” he told reporters, acknowledging the significance of the event while offering no further remarks.
With the election of Pope Leo XIV, the Catholic Church enters a new chapter under American leadership for the first time in its nearly 2,000-year history. His background, vision, and chosen name are expected to shape the Church’s direction in a rapidly changing world.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara on May 15, with discussions reportedly focusing on upcoming peace talks between Ukrainian and Russian delegates in Istanbul.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the war in Gaza will not stop until Hamas is destroyed, following the release of US-Israeli soldier Edan Alexander.
Qatar signed a landmark agreement with U.S. aerospace giant Boeing on Wednesday to acquire 160 aircraft for Qatar Airways, a deal valued at $200 billion. The signing took place in Doha during the visit of U.S. President Donald Trump.
Ukrainian and Russian delegations meet behind closed doors at Istanbul’s Dolmabahçe Palace at 10:00 local time today to explore security guarantees, territorial integrity and a possible ceasefire.
EU approves 17th Russia sanctions, blacklisting almost 200 shadow‑fleet ships, 30 evasion firms and 75 defence figures, banning missile chemicals and arming Brussels to strike Kremlin hybrid and operations.
The U.S. Supreme Court recently allowed President Donald Trump's administration to move forward with ending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for around 350,000 Venezuelans living in the U.S. Trump has also aimed to end TPS protections for Haitians, Afghans, and others.
The U.S. Supreme Court has granted a request from the Trump administration to lift protections under the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program for approximately 350,000 Venezuelans, potentially opening the door to future deportations while litigation continues.
Lithuania has taken legal action against Belarus at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing Minsk of organizing irregular migrant crossings and violating international obligations.
Indonesia has raised the alert level to the highest for Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki after it erupted eight times over the weekend, the country’s volcanology agency said.
As South Western Railway becomes the latest operator to be renationalised under Great British Railways (GBR), questions remain about whether these changes will lead to better services or lower fares.
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