The US has halted foreign aid for several countries, including Ukraine, but exempted Israel and Turkey. Secretary of State Rubio's directive mandates this freeze, with exceptions for emergency food and military funding for allies. This impacts various aid programs, including PEPFAR, affecting over 20 million people needing HIV/AIDS treatment.
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Donald Trump's tariff decision shocks global markets. Stephen Miran, CEA chair, is key to this shift. He advocates for tariffs to rebalance trade. Miran believes the US has been carrying too much burden. He argues tariffs can be imposed with minimal disruption and says the US will no longer allow free-riding. This policy is now being tested globally.
Vivek Ramaswamy, a former Republican presidential candidate, is reportedly planning to run for Ohio governor. Currently collaborating with Elon Musk on government efficiency, he aims to streamline the upcoming Trump administration. Ramaswamy will announce his gubernatorial candidacy after Ohio Governor Mike DeWine names JD Vance's Senate replacement. Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted has been appointed for the Senate role.
Brazilian President Lula da Silva, 79, underwent successful surgery for a brain hemorrhage on Monday night in Sao Paulo. The hemorrhage was a result of a fall in October. He is currently stable and recovering in intensive care. Lula had previously canceled a BRICS summit appearance due to the injury.
Senator Mark Warner has expressed significant concern about a leak of sensitive discussions regarding potential US military strikes in Yemen. Warner emphasized the risk this posed to American lives, particularly those on the USS Harry S. Truman, and stressed that the information was classified despite denials from the Trump administration.
Argentina's President, Javier Milei, endorsed the cryptocurrency $LIBRA, causing its value to spike before sharply plummeting amid scam fears. Milei later retracted his support, stating he was uninformed about the project. Political opponents criticized the promotion, calling it unprecedented and harmful to investors, while investigations into potential misconduct were launched.
Two Sydney nurses were suspended after a video showed them making threats against Israeli patients. The footage, condemned by political leaders, led to investigations by NSW Health and police. The healthcare professionals, identified as Bankstown Hospital staff, face possible lifelong bans from NSW Health. Authorities assured patient safety and emphasized zero tolerance for such behavior.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams revealed he was unwell last week and underwent anesthesia for medical tests. Although he didn't specify the issue, he said all his test results were negative. Some of his illnesses are related to diabetes, and he plans to return to a more plant-based diet.
Tulsi Gabbard, confirmed as the Director of National Intelligence with strong Republican support, was presented with a Captain America shield symbolizing leadership and duty. Gabbard pledges to ensure national security and address political bias in intelligence. Her bipartisan background and commitment to service mark her leadership in overseeing 18 intelligence agencies.
A federal judge reviews the Justice Department's motion to dismiss corruption charges against Mayor Eric Adams, while Governor Kathy Hochul considers his removal. Adams, proclaiming his innocence, continues his mayoral duties. The charges allege conspiracy and bribery, with debate over priority for Adams to focus on city issues like illegal immigration and crime.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy showed openness to a US-proposed ceasefire on strikes against energy infrastructure, contingent on more details from Washington and US guarantees. He emphasized continuation of military operations in Russia's border regions and dismissed broader ceasefire terms suggested by Putin during his call with Trump.