The more recent Popes -- like the previous Pope -- have tended to soften their previous stances toward Protestantism.
Their BIGGEST bone of contention now with Protestant churches is the authority to administer the Sacraments (baptism/communion).
They've pulled back "apostate" accusations...some Catholic leaders have gone so far to commend Martin Luther in various ways.
Not really. A Baptism with water in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit is valid. Catholics may only validly receive the sacrament of Holy Communion in Churches where there is a belief in transubstantiation. The only non-Catholic Churches that I'm aware of that hold this belief are the Eastern Orthodox Churches, and probably the Coptics. However, we must be invited to receive there as it is my understanding that some Orthodox Churches object to Catholics receiving.