Global Currents: From Political Moves to Cultural Milestones

This news roundup covers Ukrainian President Zelenskiy's appeal to the EU for weapons, an EU lawmaker proposing tariff conditions, a French cyclist's release in Russia, and other significant events. Highlights include King Charles and Pope Leo's joint prayer, Mount Fuji's late snowfall, and rising commodity prices due to Pakistan-Afghanistan border tensions.

In an urgent appeal, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy called on EU leaders in Brussels to support Ukraine with long-range weapons, stressing the need to utilize frozen Russian assets for purchasing European arms. Zelenskiy's discussion with EU leaders follows an unsuccessful bid for missile aid from former U.S. President Donald Trump.

The European Union is urged to seek concessions from Washington in a U.S. tariff deal, a senior EU lawmaker proposed. The deal, part of wider talks to eliminate tariffs, hinges on legislative approval across the EU. Under current terms, the U.S. maintains significant tariffs on EU goods.

In a groundbreaking moment of historical reconciliation, King Charles joined Pope Leo at the Vatican's Sistine Chapel for a joint prayer service, marking a noteworthy event since the Anglican Church's division from Rome in 1534. This symbolic act underscores a renewed commitment to healing centuries-old rifts.

(With inputs from agencies.)