World News Brief: Pope Francis Hospitalized, M23 Rebels Seize Bukavu and Other Top Stories

Pope Francis is stable after being hospitalized for bronchitis. M23 rebels have taken control of Bukavu, Congo. U.S. Vice President Vance criticized European censorship at the Munich Security Conference. President Trump advocates a hard stance on Gaza. Multiple reports on global issues including Ukraine and U.S. domestic challenges.

Pope Francis has been admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital with a respiratory infection, the Vatican reports, assuring that he is in stable condition. After being diagnosed with bronchitis, the Pope is receiving drug therapy treatment.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have reportedly seized Bukavu after occupying Kavumu airport. Congolese troops have withdrawn, leaving the city under rebel control, as reported by local and military sources.

At the recent Munich Security Conference, U.S. Vice President JD Vance criticized European censorship of free speech and political opposition while remaining noncommittal on resolving the Ukraine crisis. The conference addressed various geopolitical tensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)