Pope Francis Puts The Poor Front And Center
Shunning the formalities of his office and focusing on poverty, Pope Francis is drawing a sharp contrast between his 2-month-old papacy and those of his predecessors.
Europe
An Ancient Religious Pilgrimage That Now Draws The Secular
The 1,200-year-old European pilgrimage route known as the Way of St. James is undergoing a revival. Tens of thousands of people are walking across France to the Spanish coastal city of Santiago de Compostela, and the relics of St. James. Once a religious affair, it's now a cultural and social phenomenon as well.
Germany May Have Paid A Price For Its Financial Power
Germans had to finance bailouts for countries like Greece, and imposed austerity measures in return. Those who disapprove may have struck back. People across the continent and beyond watched the Eurovision song contest. The German entry finished near the bottom, with countries giving the Germans no points at all
Cameron: We Have To 'Step Up Our Help' To Syrian Opposition
British Prime Minister David Cameron meets at the White House with President Obama on Monday. Steve Inskeep talks to Cameron about the options for dealing with the Syrian conflict.
In France, A Renewed Push To Return Art Looted By Nazis
Nearly seven decades after the end of World War II, France is still attempting to locate the rightful owners of art that was looted by the Nazis. The Internet and improved technology have helped, but it's still a painstaking process.
31 Suspects In 3 Nations Nabbed In $50 Million Diamond Heist
The brazen robbery at Brussels' main airport on Feb. 18 was one of the biggest diamond heists ever. Authorities say some of the stones turned up in Switzerland. Suspects have been taken into custody there and in both France and Belgium.
Portugal Struggles To Avoid 2nd Bailout
Portugal's creditors are evaluating the country's latest austerity package, which includes 30,000 public sector layoffs, to determine whether Lisbon might need a second international bailout. The Portuguese government is raising the retirement age and lengthening work weeks to try to squeeze out more revenue, and repay its bailout loans.
40,000-Piece Puzzle Has A Great Fall
British jigsaw puzzle maker Dave Evans had hand cut the wooden pieces from images of Queen Elizabeth's jubilee. He says it needs to be put back together by next week, and he's hoping some of the queen's men and women can help him restore it.
Kerry's Visit To Russia A Chance To Talk Syria, Mend Fences
Secretary of State John Kerry sets off for what he calls "a long overdue" trip to Russia on Monday, and Syria is likely to top the agenda. But U.S.-Russian relations are frosty these days. The U.S. is imposing targeted sanctions on Russian human rights violators, while Moscow is preventing American families from adopting Russian children.
Police Ask Passersby To Return Cash From Stolen Safe
When thieves in a Belgian town tried to shake the cops, they dumped a safe out of the getaway car. The safe popped open, spilling $1.3 million worth of cash. People scrambled to pick it up. One woman even brought out a broom. Two weeks later, police are asking for the money to be returned.