Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected the first US-born pope, taking the name Leo XIV, with early coverage examining his potential stance on LGBTQ+ rights. Trump offered congratulations to the new pontiff.

North Korea's missile tests for "nuclear counterattack" purposes gained attention as Kim Jong Un personally oversaw the drills, followed by reports of Putin embracing North Korean military personnel.

Economic news highlighted Mitsubishi Heavy Industries reaching a 10 trillion yen market capitalization for the first time, driven by defense and AI-related businesses. Panasonic announced plans to cut 10,000 jobs (4% of workforce) as part of restructuring efforts costing 130 billion yen. Nissan abandoned plans for an EV battery factory in Kitakyushu due to financial challenges.

Trade tensions continued with Japan's difficulties in tariff negotiations with the US contrasting with UK's success, while Trump suggested 80% tariffs on Chinese imports were appropriate.