President Donald Trump's meeting with Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House erupted into a political confrontation, abruptly ending with Trump issuing an ultimatum. Trump demanded gratitude and compromise, while Zelenskyy highlighted Russia's unreliability. The fallout hinted at a shift in US foreign policy, causing unease among American allies.
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During President Trump's inauguration, a lip-reading TikTok creator interpreted a conversation between Barack Obama and George W. Bush, suggesting Obama asked how to stop current events. The two former presidents laughed. Obama attended without Michelle, and skipped Trump's inaugural lunch with Bush and Clinton, exemplifying a humorous and critical tone towards Trump.
Elon Musk has positioned a network of former SpaceX employees, conservative lawyers, and executives in key U.S. federal agencies. This group, known as the DOGE team, influences technological restructuring and policy changes, drawing concerns over regulatory independence while proponents highlight potential efficiency and innovation.
This report details Syria’s new Islamist rulers, led by HTS, launching a national dialogue conference in Damascus to shape the country’s post-Assad future. The interim government pledges inclusive governance and reconstruction while facing challenges like economic recovery, minority concerns, and unifying armed factions. Meanwhile, Israel warns against HTS expansion near its border, and Syria’s new leadership seeks international recognition and sanctions relief.
US President Donald Trump confronted Ukrainian President Zelenskyy over a minerals deal at the Oval Office, leading to a heated exchange and the deal being revoked. Zelenskyy later apologized, and peace discussions between US and Ukrainian representatives are set to continue in Saudi Arabia.
Republican Congressman Thomas Massie was the sole GOP member to vote against a crucial spending bill aimed at preventing a government shutdown. Despite facing criticism from US President Donald Trump, Massie stood by his decision, emphasising his commitment to fiscal responsibility. The bill narrowly passed the House and now moves to the Senate.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi warned that Beijing will retaliate against US tariffs, accusing Washington of hostility despite China's cooperation on issues like America's fentanyl crisis. He also criticized President Trump's approach of placing US interests over international cooperation, warning it could destabilize global order and harm international relations.
Nasa employees have been directed to remove all pronouns from emails and other applications following an executive order from the Trump administration. In response, Nasa disabled the ability to add pronouns in user displays and mandated uniform signature blocks. Public materials referencing gender identity were also affected.
US Vice President JD Vance experienced an unforgettable moment as he entered the Oval Office for the first time, led by President Donald Trump. Captured on video by House Speaker Mike Johnson, Vance expressed his awe, calling the experience incredible. Johnson highlighted Vance's rise from humble beginnings to Vice President, showcasing the possibility of achieving high office in America.
Germany's mainstream conservatives led by Friedrich Merz won the national election, positioning him as the next leader. Merz emphasized uniting Europe amidst global challenges and aimed to maintain a strong transatlantic relationship while enhancing European defense capabilities. Negotiations with the Social Democrats are expected to begin soon.
Despite President Trump's assurance, the US response to Myanmar's devastating earthquake has been slow, lagging behind China, Russia, and India. The US announced up to $2 million in aid, but ongoing layoffs at USAID and disrupted key systems have hampered their relief efforts.