Russia and Ukraine Conduct Largest Prisoner Swap; Hundreds Released in Landmark Exchange – 5/24/2025, 6:28:24 PM

As of May 24, 2025, here are the latest world news developments:

• A major prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine has begun, with hundreds of prisoners being released in what appears to be the largest such exchange between the two countries[3][5]

• The NTSB is investigating a deadly plane crash in San Diego, revealing that the airport’s weather alert system and runway lights were not working at the time of the incident[5]

• Legendary singer Billy Joel has been diagnosed with a rare brain disorder, forcing him to cancel his summer tour[5]

• President Trump has threatened to impose a 50% tariff on EU products and warned Apple it may face a 25% tariff unless iPhone production is moved to the U.S.[5]

• A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s ban on foreign students at Harvard University[4][5]

• Rescue efforts continue for 260 workers trapped in a South African gold mine, with reports that all employees have been accounted for and provided with food[3]

• The death toll from a school bus bombing in southwestern Pakistan has risen to eight, with Pakistan’s military blaming India for allegedly supporting rebels behind the attack[3]

• The UN has warned that Gaza is entering the “cruelest phase” of the war between Israel and Hamas[5]

• A woman has been arrested after 18 people were injured in a knife attack in Hamburg, Germany[4]

• New arrests have been made amid a manhunt for escaped inmates from a New Orleans prison[5]

• Verdicts have been reached in the Kim Kardashian Paris jewelry robbery trial[5]

• The Vatican reports that Pope Francis has thanked Vatican employees and emphasized that prayer and faith are essential ingredients in their work[1]

• Venezuelans are heading to the polls amid opposition calls for boycotts and government tightening its grip on power[3]

• Congo’s senate has voted to lift former President Joseph Kabila’s immunity over his alleged support of rebels[3]