Global Updates: Pope's Travel, NATO Criticisms, Royal Security, EU Trade Deals, and Hantavirus Outbreak [2026-05-13]

The Vatican announced Pope Leo XIV's September visit to France, marking his first EU country stop outside Italy, with stops in Paris and Lourdes. French bishops, who typically avoid announcing papal visits, revealed the itinerary, prompting Catholics to pray for the Pope's arrival. The trip follows his June 6-12 Spain visit, which was his first international trip as leader. Meanwhile, Trump criticized NATO allies for failing to secure the Strait of Hormuz and under-spending on defense, with Spain refusing military access to bases for Iran missions. The U.S. leader also threatened to withdraw troops from Italy and Spain, citing lack of support against Iran, as 68,000 troops are stationed in Europe.

Security concerns over the royal family escalated as a 33-year-old man was detained for plotting an attack on Princess Alexia in The Hague, with axes marked with 'Alexia', 'Mossad', and 'Sieg Heil'. The suspect, whose name was withheld under Dutch privacy laws, faces court this week. Queen Máxima called the threats 'enormous consequences' for her life, noting past threats against Amalia, who had 2020 Instagram threats and a 2022 Madrid move. The Netherlands' prosecutor declined further details, citing legal protections.

The EU-Mercosur trade deal, set to begin on May 1, 2026, faces criticism and legal challenges despite support from Germany and Spain to counter Trump's tariffs. France warned of increased beef and sugar imports harming farmers, while the EU Parliament voted to challenge the deal in court. The EU is also pursuing deals with India, Indonesia, Australia, and Mexico to counter Trump's protectionism, though economists say gains will be modest. The provisional agreement aims to reduce reliance on China for minerals but risks sparking legal disputes.

A social media feud between Barcelona and Real Madrid intensified after Barcelona's 2-0 LaLiga victory over Real Madrid, with Lamine Yamal posting 'Talk is cheap' on Instagram. The rivalry, dating back to October 2025, saw Yamal help Barcelona win 23 of 25 league matches post-October loss. Yamal also waved a Palestinian flag during a title parade despite injury, sparking debate. The two teams have played seven El Clásico matches in two seasons, highlighting the enduring sports rivalry.

A hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship in Spain led to 11 cases, three deaths, and evacuation in Tenerife. Health officials confirmed the virus, which rarely transmits between humans, and warned of potential new cases due to its 42-day incubation period. Spain's Health Ministry reported a positive test in Madrid during quarantine, while 18 U.S. passengers in Nebraska and Georgia were under observation. The ship will undergo cleaning in Rotterdam after repatriating over 20 countries' passengers and 27 crew, with 27 crew arriving in May. CDC director Jay Bhattacharya noted the risk is lower than the COVID-19 pandemic.