Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick is causing frustration within the Trump administration as President Donald Trump prepares to implement the 'Liberation Day' strategy with reciprocal tariffs. Lutnick’s public statements and promotion of certain stocks have raised concerns. Internal discontent is rising, despite the White House defending Lutnick's business experience and importance to the administration's economic and trade efforts.
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At least 20 people died and one survived a plane crash in northern South Sudan, with the aircraft crashing 500 metres from the runway. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff amid a routine mission near the region’s oil fields. An investigation is underway, and initial reports suggest a possible mechanical failure.
Thousands protested against US President Trump's immigration policies, blocking a major Los Angeles freeway. The demonstration, part of a broader anti-immigration crackdown movement, saw rallies in Riverside, San Diego, and Dallas. Demonstrators voiced strong opposition to recent ICE raids and Trump's aggressive deportation plans. The protests faced criticism from conservative figures, while Democratic leaders condemned the administration's stringent immigration measures.
Tragically, stampedes at two Nigerian Christmas charity events claimed 32 lives, including children. Crowd surges occurred as people desperately sought food amidst a severe cost-of-living crisis. Twenty-two died in Anambra state, while ten perished in Abuja. Police are investigating these incidents, highlighting the need for improved safety measures at such events.
Syria's Foreign Minister, alongside counterparts from neighboring nations, called for lifting Western-led sanctions and emphasized post-war reconciliation efforts. This comes amid recent violence involving Alawite insurgents in Syria. Neighboring countries expressed concerns about stability and the impact of Syria's economic troubles.
The United States announced that its government vessels will now transit the Panama Canal free of charge, saving millions of dollars annually. This comes after intense pressure from President Donald Trump and follows discussions with Panama, where US Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the unfairness of previous transit fees due to the US's role in defending the strategic waterway.
A Delta Airlines flight from Atlanta to Chicago experienced a mid-air incident where the plane's interior ceiling detached. Passengers were compelled to physically support the roof until flight attendants temporarily repaired it with duct tape. The flight was diverted back to Atlanta, causing significant delays, and passengers were eventually rebooked on another aircraft with Delta offering 10,000 miles as compensation.
Nations reach a historic agreement in Geneva to combat future pandemics. The accord addresses shortcomings exposed by Covid-19. It focuses on pathogen data sharing and technology transfer. Article 11 was a point of contention. The World Health Organization will present the final text for approval next month. The US absence and potential tariffs cast a shadow.
New Orleans police fatally shot ISIS-inspired attacker Shamsud-Din Jabbar after he killed 14 people in a New Year's truck rampage. Bodycam footage shows police surrounding the truck and exchanging gunfire with Jabbar, who fired first. An ISIS flag and detailed plans of the attack were found in Jabbar's vehicle. FBI continues to investigate.
Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins has been chosen as the designated survivor for President Trump's 2025 joint address to Congress. Collins, a former congressman, ensures government continuity by staying at a secure location while top officials gather at the Capitol.
US President Donald Trump held his first cabinet meeting, discussing various topics including government spending, immigration, and the economy. Elon Musk, also present, emphasized DOGE's role in updating government technology. Trump confirmed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s White House visit and announced a 25% tariff on EU goods. He also addressed potential workforce reductions within federal agencies.