The Vatican recently issued a document, signed by Pope Leo XIV, warning against the rise of polyamory and reaffirming the Church’s stance on monogamous marriage. The note, titled “One Flesh – In Praise of Monogamy,” emphasizes marriage as the exclusive, lifelong partnership between a man and a woman, addressing the growing prevalence of non-monogamous unions, including polyamory and discussions on polygamy in Africa. The 40-page document highlights the importance of the “unitive” aspect of sex within marriage, beyond procreation, and underscores the foundation of unity within marriage. Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández, the prefect of the Vatican’s doctrine office, explained the document aimed to explain the importance of an exclusive union of love.
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Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has been ordered to begin serving his 27-year sentence in a police base after being convicted of plotting a coup. The Supreme Court found Bolsonaro guilty of leading a conspiracy to prevent his left-wing rival from taking power, which involved a failed plot to assassinate the incoming president. Bolsonaro’s co-conspirators, including former ministers and military officials, were also ordered to start their sentences, with some already in custody. While Bolsonaro’s incarceration sparked mixed reactions, with both jubilation and condemnation, experts suggest his influence has significantly waned, and mass protests have not materialized.
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X’s new feature revealing user locations and account details has exposed widespread manipulation and fake accounts. Numerous accounts posing as Gazan residents, including some that solicited donations, were revealed to be operating from other countries such as Nigeria and Pakistan. Furthermore, accounts claiming to be journalists from Gaza were found to be based in locations like the United States and Turkey. The increased transparency has unveiled the extent of coordinated inauthentic activity on the platform, highlighting potential issues with political activism and misinformation campaigns.
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The European Parliament is considering a proposal to ban children under 16 from social media platforms. Citing concerning data on young people’s internet usage and potential risks, the Parliament’s Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) has drafted a resolution advocating for a harmonized digital age limit across the EU. This resolution, which will be voted on in a plenary session, also suggests applying the same age limit to video-sharing platforms and AI assistants, with the possibility of a harmonized digital age limit of 13 years. While the European Commission has been working on measures to protect minors online, it has previously resisted imposing an EU-wide digital age, leaving the decision to member states.
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French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that the US’s proposed peace plan for Ukraine needs significant revisions before it is acceptable to Ukraine and Europe. Macron emphasized that the plan, while a step toward peace, contains elements that could be perceived as capitulation. He clarified that any decisions regarding territorial compromises rest solely with Ukraine and that the plan should not dictate terms favorable to Russia. Furthermore, Macron highlighted the importance of Ukraine rebuilding its military and emphasized Europe’s authority over frozen Russian assets.
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Nathan Gill, the former leader of Reform UK in Wales, has been sentenced to 10-and-a-half years in prison. Gill admitted to accepting bribes in exchange for pro-Russia interviews and speeches, potentially receiving up to £40,000. These payments were connected to his work as a Member of the European Parliament, with the money coming from an individual alleged to have ties to Russian secret services. Judge Mrs Justice Cheema-Grubb stated that Gill’s actions abused his position and damaged public trust in democracy.
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A recent United Nations study reveals Jakarta as the world’s largest urban center, surpassing Tokyo, which previously held the title. The report highlights the rapid urbanization in Asia, with nine of the ten most populous cities located there. Jakarta’s massive population poses significant challenges, including congestion and pollution, prompting Indonesia’s plan to relocate its capital. Overall, the UN emphasizes that urbanization is a defining force, urging countries to adopt integrated policies for balanced development and sustainable growth.
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Russia’s oil and gas revenue is anticipated to decrease by approximately 35% in November compared to the previous year, reaching roughly $6.6 billion, due to weaker crude prices and a stronger ruble. This decline, also reflected in a 7.4% decrease from October, places pressure on Russia’s budget, especially with elevated defense spending. For the first 11 months of 2025, oil and gas revenue is projected to total approximately $102 billion. Western sanctions, designed to limit Moscow’s war funding, have compounded the issue.
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White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated the United States cannot indefinitely supply weapons to Ukraine. Leavitt explained that former President Trump has dedicated considerable effort to ending the war and seeks to stop the killings. Although no longer providing funding directly, the US continues to provide significant amounts of weapons through NATO. Leavitt emphasized that the president wants the war to end, reflecting the sentiment of a frustrated American society.
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The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) is facing criticism from the UK and other countries regarding the reinstatement of Russia and Belarus, despite the ongoing war in Ukraine. IPC President Andrew Parsons stated the decision to lift the partial suspensions was not linked to participation in wars but instead based on the perceived reduction of promotion of the war through Paralympic sport. The IPC’s decision was influenced by a perceived inconsistency in applying sanctions, given other global conflicts. While the UK and a number of European countries expressed concern over the decision, the IPC has stated it will respond with the information they want regarding the consequences.
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John Q. Hosedrinker