In December 2024, Congress reached a cross-party agreement to fund the government and avoid a shutdown. The measure included $100.4 billion for disaster relief and an additional $10 billion in aid for farmers. Despite its importance in maintaining government operations, the agreement faced criticism from various quarters, including Elon Musk and President-elect Donald Trump.
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President Trump declared a national emergency to implement new tariffs, aiming to protect the American economy and boost domestic production. The new framework raises baseline duties on nearly all imports, with more significant tariffs on key allies. This policy is expected to revert the U.S. to an era of high tariff-based revenue.
US Vice President JD Vance faced pro-Ukraine protesters during a family ski trip in Vermont, following a tense meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The confrontation led to Vance and his family relocating to a secure location amid fierce backlash, signaling strained US-Ukraine relations.
Apple CEO Tim Cook dined with President-elect Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago on Friday. This follows recent meetings between Trump and other tech leaders like Sam Altman, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos. Trump previously discussed Apple's tax disputes with the EU with Cook. Altman, Amazon, and Meta each donated $1 million to Trump's inauguration fund.
Steve Bannon has denied claims of performing a Nazi salute during his speech at CPAC, arguing that he was merely waving to the audience. He asserts that the media misinterpreted his gesture, which led to unfounded accusations and widespread online criticism.
Harvard faculty organisations are suing the Trump administration, alleging constitutional rights violations due to threats of funding cuts. The lawsuit challenges the review of $9 billion in federal funds over alleged antisemitism, arguing it undermines free speech and academic freedom. Faculty seek a restraining order, claiming the government is using funding to punish dissenting institutions.
A report reveals that less than half of the $225 million collected by the US Army for a food program was spent on meals. Instead, $151 million was diverted for other uses, causing significant concern. Examples include Fort Stewart, where only $2.1 million of $17 million was used on food.
Drones attacked Kazan, Russia, damaging residential buildings and an industrial facility. No casualties were reported, but flights were halted and events canceled. This follows a Ukrainian missile attack in Kursk that killed six. Overnight, Ukraine repelled a large drone assault, shooting down many and jamming others. Drone attacks also wounded eight in Kharkiv.
Russia's foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, stated that Moscow sees no value in a weak ceasefire that would merely freeze the conflict in Ukraine. Instead, Russia seeks a legally binding peace deal to ensure long-term security for itself and its neighbours, preventing any future violations.
Elon Musk criticized UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for not addressing grooming gangs, using viral memes to highlight perceived inaction. Musk condemned the UK government’s focus on arresting meme posters instead of criminals, calling for Starmer’s resignation amid severe backlash.
Elon Musk explains Trump Derangement Syndrome, noting how irrational some people become at the mention of Trump’s name. Despite Tesla’s significant government funding, Musk faces criticism for reducing federal positions and services, highlighting a debate on public investment and private benefit.