War Widens In Black Sea In Test Of NATO Red Lines

After a surge of strikes on cargo ships near NATO members Romania and Bulgaria, the U.S.-led alliance is deploying additional assets to bolster its eastern flank in the Black Sea.

Following attacks on seven cargo vessels last month, NATO said it would send more maritime patrol aircraft, radar systems and drones to the region.

Unabating attacks show how the escalating maritime war between Russia and Ukraine is expanding into a major challenge for NATO.

Military analysts said they had little doubt that these were Russian attacks. A naval drone seen on video of the last strike resembled a Russian variant, according to shipping security firm Ambrey.

Pope Leo Travels To South America After Lung Cancer Surgery

Less than four weeks after lung cancer surgery, Pope Leo is embarking on one of the most grueling papal tours in decades, visiting 10 cities across Latin America, traveling 31,000km and delivering 36 speeches.

The tour begins in Uruguay from 6 to 8 November, before moving to Argentina from 8 to 11 November. The Pope will then travel to Peru, where he will remain until 17 November.

It will be his sixth international trip and his first visit to Latin America since becoming Pope.

The journey carries particular significance for Leo, who spent several years as a missionary in Peru and served as bishop of Chiclayo between 2015 and 2023. He also holds Peruvian citizenship, with the trip set to conclude with a return to the city where he once served.

Despite his recent surgery, the Pope's doctors have confirmed that his cancer was localized, had not spread and would not require further treatment.

However, concerns may remain over the physical demands of the journey.

The packed schedule will involve 12 flights, two helicopter journeys and a visit to Cusco, one of Peru's highest-altitude cities, situated approximately 11,000ft above sea level.

With thousands of miles to cover and dozens of speeches to deliver, the tour will put the Pope's stamina to the test as he returns to a region that has played a significant role in his life and religious career.

Cristiano Ronaldo Retires From International Football

Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo, one of football’s greatest players, retires after a record-breaking 23-year career wearing the No. 7 shirt for his national team.

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, ending a record-breaking 23-year career with Portugal. The 41-year-old made 234 appearances and scored 146 goals, both men's international records, after making his debut aged 18 in 2003. Widely regarded as one of football's greatest players, Ronaldo helped Portugal win Euro 2016 and two UEFA Nations League titles, in 2019 and 2025.

Ronaldo appeared at six World Cups, matching Lionel Messi, and became the first male player to score in six editions of the tournament, finishing with 11 goals from 27 matches. He also featured in a record six European Championships, scoring in five and becoming the competition’s all-time leading goalscorer. His international career included 10 hat-tricks, another men's record, before his retirement following a dispute with Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus.