April 19, 2026
World
World
SEOUL, April 19 — North Korea fired multiple ballistic missiles on Sunday, South Korea’s military said, marking the latest in a series of recent weapons launches by the nuclear-armed state.
ROME, April 18 — Donald Trump’s threat against Iran marked a turning point for Pope Leo XIV, prompting the usually measured pontiff to speak out more forcefully, analysts say.
Previously cautious and reluctant to appear openly opposed to Trump, Leo had largely left criticism of the US administration to American bishops. However, the escalation in rhetoric and fears of wider conflict pushed him to condemn the remarks as “unacceptable” and call for peace.
Experts say the clash has elevated Leo’s global profile, giving the leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics a stronger platform and helping unite divided factions within the Church.
Despite criticism from Trump, Leo has remained defiant, saying he has “no fear” and continuing to speak out against war and the misuse of religion.
Analysts believe the confrontation has marked a defining moment in his papacy, with growing support positioning him as a key moral voice on the global stage. — AFP
