AI Encyclical Sparks Global Debate: Pope Leo XIV’s first encyclical, “Magnifica Humanitas,” frames AI as a civilisational turning point and urges the world to “disarm” AI, protect human dignity, and prevent autonomous warfare and digital exploitation—while also apologizing for the Church’s role in legitimizing slavery. Tech vs. Vatican Ethics: The document’s release has triggered fresh clashes with Silicon Valley and renewed calls for regulation, with reactions ranging from Catholic labor leaders praising worker protections to tech figures engaging the Pope’s warnings. US Politics Meets Vatican Teaching: J.D. Vance publicly discusses “updating” just war doctrine in light of the encyclical, while the broader debate highlights how Vatican ethics are colliding with Washington’s AI and defense priorities. Diplomacy and Church Outreach: Pope Leo XIV met Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez ahead of the Pope’s upcoming trip, focusing on migration, peace, and cooperation—while Sri Lanka’s new envoy presented credentials and heard calls for dialogue over domination. Vatican in the News Beyond AI: The Vatican declared Cameroonian religious brother Jean-Thierry Ebogo “Venerable,” advancing his cause toward beatification. Spain’s Political Storm: As Sánchez met the Pope, Spanish police raided the Socialist Party HQ in a corruption probe, underscoring the tense backdrop to Vatican-Spain diplomacy.