The Ukrainian Foreign Intelligence Service reports a crisis of confidence in Russia’s banking system, marked by a shift towards short-term deposits and dwindling demand for longer-term investments. Three-month deposits have surged in popularity, while those exceeding a year have plummeted, reflecting widespread distrust in the unstable Russian economy. This trend suggests a deepening economic crisis, as banks struggle to attract clients and key sectors falter. The situation is further compounded by the ongoing war in Ukraine, international sanctions, and predictions of long-term economic stagnation.
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The U.S. Senate did vote in late October 2025 to end President Trump’s tariffs on Canadian and Brazilian imports, as well as global tariffs he had imposed. These actions were part of a broader effort to repeal Trump’s trade policies. The votes saw four Republican senators joining Democrats on each resolution. Although the Senate passed the three joint resolutions, they were unlikely to be brought to a vote in the House of Representatives at that time.
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The Trump administration is now demanding states reverse full SNAP benefits paid out after a legal battle over the anti-hunger program, following a Supreme Court stay on lower court rulings. The Department of Agriculture considers the payments unauthorized and warned states could face penalties for non-compliance. Over two dozen states have warned of “catastrophic operational disruptions” if the administration does not reimburse them for these benefits. Several states, like Massachusetts and Wisconsin, have stated that they will not comply with the directive and will fight it in court.
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On Sunday, former President Trump announced a plan to distribute at least $2,000 to every American, excluding high-income individuals, using funds generated from tariff revenue. This proposal, likely requiring Congressional approval, mirrors a similar bill introduced by Senator Josh Hawley earlier this year for $600 rebates. However, the Treasury Department has previously indicated a priority of using tariff revenue to reduce the national debt, which currently stands at $38.12 trillion. Despite the conflicting goals, tariff duties collected through the first three quarters of the year reached $195 billion, although consumers currently face an effective tariff rate of 18%, the highest since 1934.
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AP News has learned the identity of some men killed in U.S. military strikes on alleged drug-smuggling boats, thanks to reporting done by Regina Garcia Cano. Through interviews with residents and relatives in Venezuelan villages, it was discovered that the deceased were not narco-terrorists as claimed, but rather men involved in drug running for the first or second time. The reporting was met with significant challenges, as sources were fearful of speaking out due to potential repercussions from the Venezuelan government, including searches and detentions. Despite the challenges, the reporting found widespread poverty and a lack of information that is hindering the ability of families to mourn their lost loved ones.
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In a recent Truth Social post, former President Trump expressed his frustration with the Supreme Court, particularly justices he appointed, who are questioning the legality of his tariffs. The Supreme Court is currently reviewing arguments concerning Trump’s authority to impose tariffs without congressional approval, and the justices have expressed skepticism regarding his legal justifications. Trump, who has utilized the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to bypass Congress, faces potential legal challenges, as the court’s decision could lead to a significant refund of tariff revenue. In addition to his tariff concerns, Trump also urged Republican senators to eliminate the filibuster to expedite the budget process and reopen the government.
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Recent polling data reveals a growing number of voters who supported Donald Trump in the previous election are expressing disappointment with his conduct in office. These disillusioned voters, including a self-described Libertarian from Pennsylvania, cite specific policy decisions such as the expiration of funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and expansive spending measures as reasons for their dissatisfaction. Focus groups composed of Latino voters also expressed concerns regarding the President’s handling of both the economy and immigration policies. The perceived betrayal of campaign promises and shifting priorities have led to widespread voter remorse.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy anticipates that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán will attempt to negotiate the purchase of Russian energy resources during his meeting with former US President Donald Trump. Zelenskyy believes Orbán will prioritize securing Hungary’s oil dependence on Russia, aiming to maintain its energy supply. The Ukrainian leader emphasized that Ukraine will actively prevent Russia from profiting from its energy sector, particularly in the context of recent reports indicating Orbán’s efforts to obtain exemptions from US sanctions on Russian energy companies. Zelenskyy also expects Orbán to advocate for a meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
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The Trump administration has ordered states to reverse actions taken to provide full SNAP benefits to low-income Americans, citing them as “unauthorized” and threatening financial penalties for non-compliance. This follows a federal judge’s order to provide the funds, which was temporarily paused by Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson. The resulting uncertainty has left nearly 1 in 8 Americans, who rely on SNAP benefits, in a state of flux, increasing demand at food banks and pantries nationwide. The USDA memo, first reported by The New York Times, has been met with criticism from state officials who cite a lack of clarity.
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USDA tells states to undo efforts to issue full food aid benefits, and it’s a gut punch, plain and simple. It’s like a cruel joke, especially with Thanksgiving just around the corner. The whole situation has this air of desperation and political maneuvering that’s hard to stomach. The core issue boils down to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, which is designed to help families afford food.
The initial reaction from some corners is a classic blame game. “It’s the Democrats’ fault,” they’ll say, trying to deflect responsibility for the consequences. It’s a frustrating cycle where courts mandate SNAP payments, but some Republicans seem determined to block them.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood