Overview

• The Sistine Chapel chimney has been installed, signaling readiness for smoke signals during the Conclave starting May 7.
• 133 cardinal electors, with a two-thirds quorum of 89 votes, will participate, while two are absent due to health reasons.
• The Vatican's financial crisis remains a key issue, with deficits totaling €231.5 million over the past three years and calls for urgent reforms.
• Cardinal Becciu’s withdrawal from the Conclave has been officially acknowledged, while Cardinal Cipriani's participation despite sanctions has drawn criticism.
• Factional divides persist among U.S. cardinals, with conservative and progressive blocs vying for influence in the selection of the next Pope.