Stories for May 8th 2025

Thursday, May 8th 2025 - 23:58 UTC
Sir Attenborough at 99: “The most important place on Earth is not on land, but at sea”

Sir David Attenborough is launching what he says is one of the most important films of his career as he enters his hundredth year. He believes his new, cinema-length film Ocean could play a decisive role in saving biodiversity and protecting the planet from climate change, according to a report in BBC. Sir David, who will be 99 this Thursday, says: ”After almost 100 years on the planet, I now understand the most important place on Earth is not on land, but at sea.
Thursday, May 8th 2025 - 18:35 UTC
US Cardinal Robert Prevost becomes Pope Leo XIV

US Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost Martínez was elected Thursday as the new head of the Catholic Church to succeed the Argentine Jorge Mario Bergoglio (Pope Francis). The new pontiff chose to be called Leo XIV. The first American pope, who belongs to the Order of St Augustine (OSA), also holds Peruvian citizenship after spending a large portion of his clergical life in the South American country.
Thursday, May 8th 2025 - 18:17 UTC
Falkland Islands commemorates 80th Anniversary of VE Day with tributes and events

The Falkland Islands marked the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day today, joining global commemorations to honor those who served and sacrificed during the Second World War. VE Day, which signifies the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany on May 8, 1945, is recognized as a powerful symbol of hope, unity, and resilience against tyranny.
Thursday, May 8th 2025 - 17:54 UTC
US, UK reach trade deal marking Washington's openness to business

President Donald Trump announced a new trade deal between the United States and Britain, which he described as the first major such agreement of his second term. The announcement, made from the Oval Office with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on speakerphone, highlighted the accord's benefits for both nations.
Thursday, May 8th 2025 - 15:20 UTC
Brazil’s new World Map sparks debate: A southern perspective on global geography

Brazil has launched a new world map that places the South American nation at the center of the world, challenging traditional Eurocentric perspectives. Released by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), the map is part of the country’s updated Geographical Atlas, emphasizing Brazil's prominence in global affairs.
Thursday, May 8th 2025 - 10:55 UTC
New German Chancellor wants EU-Mercosur deal expedited

Germany's newly appointed Chancellor Friedrich Merz traveled on his first day in office to Paris and Warsaw to further push for European unity. With French President Emmanuel Macron he discussed bilateral ties, European security, US trade tariffs, and the Ukraine conflict. He also supported the EU-Mercosur trade agreement, despite France's reservations due to environmental concerns.
Thursday, May 8th 2025 - 10:41 UTC
BCB ups Selic rate to 14.75% per annum

Brazil's Central Bank's (BCB) Monetary Policy Committee (Copom) unanimously decided Wednesday to raise the Selic benchmark rate by 0.5 percentage points to 14.75% per year, consolidating a contraction cycle. This decision was driven by high food and energy prices and global economic uncertainties, and the financial markets were expecting the move.
Thursday, May 8th 2025 - 10:30 UTC
Argentine Senate gives thumbs down to Clean Record bill

Argentina's Senate rejected the “Clean Record” bill barring individuals convicted on appeal of serious crimes from running for public office, with 36 votes in favor and 35 against, falling one vote short of the required 37 for approval.
Thursday, May 8th 2025 - 10:23 UTC
Orsi disagrees with Pepe Mujica on PIT-CNT's role during previous gov't

Uruguayan President Yamandú Orsi disagreed with former President José Pepe Mujica’s remarks about the PIT-CNT union during a May 1st event, noting he discussed “more important things” with his former mentor. He also reckoned on taking note of the labor grouping's approach, particularly regarding upcoming wage council negotiations.
Thursday, May 8th 2025 - 09:16 UTC
Vatican: First round of voting results in black fumata

The first vote of the 2025 conclave to elect Pope Francis' successor on Wednesday ended in black smoke at 9 pm local time. According to local media, a delay was caused by a 45-minute meditation by Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa and the inexperience of many non-Italian-speaking cardinals. Over 45,000 faithful were waiting for it in St. Peter's Square.