From papal diplomacy to presidential directives, here’s what made headlines this week on Virginia Times.
Most Popular Headlines of the Week:
- Pope Leo XIV Calls for Global Peace in First Regina Coeli Address
- Gregg Popovich Steps Down as Spurs Head Coach After Historic Run
- Gates Accuses Musk of Endangering Lives Over USAID Cuts
- South Korea Bets Big on Hydrogen Economy
- Trump Blasts Media Over First 100 Days Polls
- Trump, Starmer Sign $11 Billion U.S.-UK Trade Pact
- Trump Welcomes Canadian PM Carney at the White House
- Trump Ends Federal Funding for NPR and PBS
- European Commission Fines Apple and Meta
- Russia–Ukraine Peace Talks: Ceasefire Demands and Summit Drama
- Bitcoin Leads 2025 Crypto Rally
- India–Pakistan Ceasefire Holds Tentatively Amid Pressure
- Mexico Sues Google Over ‘Gulf of America’ Label
This Week’s Top Stories:
Let’s dive into the most talked-about headlines of the week, one by one!
Pope Leo XIV Calls for Global Peace in First Regina Coeli Address
In his first Sunday address, Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful global appeal for peace from the Vatican. He urged an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, called for humanitarian corridors, and demanded justice in Ukraine. The pontiff also welcomed the India–Pakistan ceasefire and emphasized a unified Church grounded in service and compassion. His message, ‘Never again war,’ echoed around the world and set the tone for his papacy.
Gregg Popovich Steps Down as Spurs Head Coach After Historic Run
After 27 iconic seasons and five NBA championships, Gregg Popovich has retired as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs. Revered for his leadership and mentorship, Popovich leaves behind a legacy of competitive excellence. Assistant coach Mitch Johnson has been named as his successor, beginning a new chapter in Spurs basketball.
Gates Accuses Musk of Endangering Lives Over USAID Cuts
A fierce debate erupted this week after Bill Gates criticized Elon Musk for backing U.S. cuts to foreign aid, saying the move puts millions of lives at risk. Musk countered with a provocative tweet referencing Jeffrey Epstein. The clash has triggered intense discussion on billionaire influence in global humanitarian policy.
South Korea Bets Big on Hydrogen Economy
South Korea announced a strategic investment into hydrogen energy infrastructure, including city-wide transitions, industrial fuel cell plants, and hydrogen-powered maritime shipping. The initiative aligns with the country’s decarbonization goals and its ambition to become a leader in clean energy innovation.
Trump Blasts Media Over First 100 Days Polls
President Trump denounced recent media polls that criticized his first 100 days of his second term, calling them ‘fake’ and biased. In a Truth Social post, Trump vowed to bypass mainstream channels and communicate directly with the American people.
Trump, Starmer Sign $11 Billion U.S.-UK Trade Pact
Marking ‘Liberation Day,’ President Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer finalized a comprehensive $11 billion trade agreement. The deal focuses on bolstering bilateral cooperation in defense, energy, and agriculture and is seen as a post-Brexit reset in U.S.-UK relations.
Trump Welcomes Canadian PM Carney at the White House
President Trump hosted Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney for bilateral talks focused on trade, energy, and continental security. Both leaders emphasized the importance of strengthening North American economic alliances and deepening cooperation in critical sectors.
Trump Ends Federal Funding for NPR and PBS
President Trump signed an executive order cutting federal funding to NPR and PBS, citing longstanding concerns over partisan bias. The decision drew strong reactions across the political spectrum, with advocates warning about the erosion of independent public media.
European Commission Fines Apple and Meta
The European Union issued major fines against Apple and Meta for failing to comply with the Digital Markets Act. The ruling marks a milestone in EU tech regulation and signals heightened scrutiny on U.S. platforms operating in Europe.
Russia–Ukraine Peace Talks: Ceasefire Demands and Summit Drama
Tense negotiations unfolded in Istanbul this week, as Ukraine demanded a full Russian withdrawal and Moscow resisted Western pressure. Although progress was made on humanitarian corridors, a lasting resolution remains elusive. Global leaders continue to push for peace.
Bitcoin Leads 2025 Crypto Rally
Bitcoin surged over 40% since January 20, 2025, leading a wave of bullish growth across top altcoins. Analysts cite deregulation signals, renewed institutional interest, and economic optimism under Trump’s second term as key drivers of the rally.
India–Pakistan Ceasefire Holds Tentatively Amid Pressure
A fragile ceasefire between India and Pakistan held this week under the watch of international observers. Skirmishes have subsided amid Gulf Cooperation Council pressure, but deep mistrust and unresolved disputes continue to loom.
Mexico Sues Google Over ‘Gulf of America’ Label
Mexico launched a lawsuit and diplomatic protest after discovering that Google had renamed the ‘Gulf of Mexico’ as the ‘Gulf of America’ on select platforms. The controversy has triggered heated debate in Congress and among historians.
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