Russian President Vladimir Putin stated he would "analyse" Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's proposal to halt air strikes on civilian infrastructure, while alleging Ukraine uses such sites for military purposes. This follows Zelenskyy's suggestion for a 30-day pause in strikes, potentially extendable, after a brief Easter truce. Despite the truce, both sides accused each other of violations.
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Greece’s defense minister Nikos Dendias urged the EU to ease strict defense spending limits, calling them "schizophrenic" amid growing security concerns. He emphasized that military self-sufficiency requires greater financial flexibility, aligning with Nato commitments. Greece and Cyprus, along with 19 other EU states, support expanded access to European Investment Bank funds for defense. Key decisions on EU military strengthening will be ratified at an upcoming summit.
French healthcare workers are taking legal action. They allege deadly conditions in public hospitals. The complaint targets two ministers- health minister Catherine Vautrin and higher education Minister Elisabeth Borne . It cites workplace harassment and suicides. Nineteen plaintiffs accuse the ministers of negligence. They claim the ministers allowed illegal working conditions. The complaint highlights dire situations in several hospitals. It describes excessive overtime and threats.
Haley Stevens, a US Representative, has announced her candidacy for Michigan's open US Senate seat, emphasizing the economic challenges stemming from President Trump's tariff policies. Stevens aims to protect Michigan's auto industry, criticizing Trump's "chaos and reckless tariffs" that she believes jeopardize thousands of jobs. She joins a competitive race with other prominent Democrats and Republicans vying for the seat.
World shares experienced mixed results on Monday as US stocks fell sharply due to concerns over Trump's policies affecting the economy. German shares rose after conservatives' election victory. In Asia, markets showed varied performance. Weaker US economic reports, including declining home sales and rising tariffs, fueled pessimism, affecting small company stocks and impacting global market trends.
The Trump administration has terminated several probationary employees from federal health agencies to downsize the government. Thousands received termination letters citing inadequate performance and lack of fit. Exemptions were made for certain CDC and FDA staff.
Pete Hegseth has been confirmed as the new US secretary of defense after a 50-50 Senate vote. Vice President JD Vance cast the tie-breaking vote in his favor. Hegseth, a former Army major and Fox News host, faced major opposition from Democrats and some Republicans due to past allegations and controversial remarks. His supporters praise his military experience and commitment to a stronger defense policy.
The FAA is probing a near midair collision involving a Delta Air Lines flight and a US Air Force jet near Reagan National Airport. The incident occurred as Delta flight 2983 took off while Air Force T-38 Talons approached for a flyover. Both flights received corrective instructions to avoid collision.
Kanye West reportedly misled an advertising agency to air an antisemitic ad during the Super Bowl, leading to the promotion of offensive merchandise on his website. Following the incident, USIM and other partners terminated their association with West, who faced criticism and further action from organisations and public figures.
Luigi Mangione, the accused killer of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, is overwhelmed by the volume of supporter photos he receives in Brooklyn jail. Despite pleading not guilty, Mangione has amassed significant backing, raising over $615,000 for his legal defense. His legal team appreciates the public's support ahead of his ongoing trial for the high-profile murder.
Federal agencies are defying Elon Musk's mandate for employees to submit weekly work accomplishments under the threat of termination, raising legal and practical concerns. Led by Trump appointees, critical institutions question the legality and security implications of Musk's directive, potentially igniting a legal battle.