Vatican's 'Trial of the Century' Verdict Imminent: Fate of Cardinal and Others Hangs in Balance

The verdicts are expected on Saturday for a cardinal and nine other defendants in the Vatican's most complicated financial trial, which involved allegations of fraud, embezzlement, extortion, corruption, money laundering, and abuse of office. The trial, initially seen as a showcase for Pope Francis' reforms, failed to produce a smoking gun to support the prosecution's hypothesis of a grand conspiracy. Instead, it revealed unintended revelations about Vatican vendettas, incompetence, and ransom payments, tarnishing the Holy See's reputation. The trial also shed light on the pope's involvement, with evidence showing that he issued secret decrees benefiting prosecutors and was aware of key aspects of the deals in question.