The ouster of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has thrown the future of U.S. assistance to Ukraine into doubt, with some of Ukraine's allies suggesting a different approach to providing aid. President Joe Biden has responded to the political upheaval by announcing plans for a "major speech" about the importance of arming Ukraine. Republicans have grown increasingly reluctant to approve more help, so some of Ukraine's allies are suggesting providing a large enough amount to allow Ukraine to keep fighting Russian invaders until after the 2024 elections. The Biden administration is now working to find a way to provide the necessary aid without facing too much opposition.
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Pope Francis has released a letter in response to five conservative cardinals who challenged him to affirm church teaching on homosexuality, suggesting there could be ways to bless same-sex unions. New Ways Ministry, an organization that advocates for LGBTQ+ Catholics, has responded positively to the letter, saying it is a major step forward in the Church's attitude towards LGBTQ+ Catholics and could lead to further progress in making the Church a safe and welcoming place for LGBTQ+ Catholics.
The United Nations Security Council voted to approve a multinational force to be sent to Haiti to combat extreme gang violence. Kenya has committed to sending 1,000 security personnel and the force is expected to include personnel from Jamaica, Barbados and several other nations. Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry thanked the U.N. Security Council and other countries who agreed to join the force, expressing hope that the mission will bring stability and security to the region.
On Tuesday afternoon, a shooting at the Siam Paragon Mall in Bangkok, Thailand left three people dead and four others wounded. Police later arrested a 14-year-old boy in connection with the attack and the motive is still unknown. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said the suspect had surrendered and the mall was closed for the remainder of the day.
A tragic incident occurred in Alberta's Banff National Park on Friday night when a grizzly bear attacked and killed two people and their dog. Parks Canada received an alert from a GPS device indicating a bear attack and the bear was killed. Parks Canada is reminding visitors to take necessary precautions when travelling in bear country, such as carrying bear spray and making noise.
On Sunday, a church roof collapsed during a Mass in northern Mexico, killing at least nine people and injuring around 50. Search and rescue teams worked late into the night to search for survivors and other victims, and the Mexican government has expressed its condolences and offered its support to the local community. A memorial service is being planned for the victims.
President Joe Biden has reassured allies of continued U.S. financial support for Ukraine, despite a short-term funding package that dropped assistance for the country. Congress passed a bill to keep the government funded until November 21, giving them more time to negotiate a longer-term solution. Biden urged Congress to act quickly to ensure the continued flow of American aid to Ukraine.
On Sunday, a suicide bomber detonated an explosive device in Ankara, Turkey, killing one assailant and injuring two police officers. The attack was condemned by the international community, including the UN and the EU, and the government has increased security measures in response. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack.