President Trump announced a significant reduction in the high tariffs imposed on Chinese goods, acknowledging that the current 145% rate is unsustainable. This follows comments from Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who predicted a de-escalation of the trade war and a rebalancing of trade between the U.S. and China. Bessent’s remarks, which were made at a private investment conference, contributed to a Wall Street rally. Trump, however, maintains that tariffs will not be eliminated entirely.
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Following a deadly terror attack in Kashmir claimed by a Pakistan-based group, India suspended its visa services for Pakistani nationals, revoked existing visas, and closed the main border crossing. In response to these actions, and India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, Pakistan declared the move an “act of war,” implemented reciprocal visa restrictions, and closed its airspace to India. Tensions escalated further with Pakistan denying involvement in the attack and India hinting at potential military action. India has released sketches of three suspects believed to be responsible.
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Proposed Republican Medicaid cuts, totaling $880 billion over a decade, are projected to have devastating consequences. These cuts, vehemently opposed by Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, would disproportionately harm children, the elderly, and rural healthcare access. A Center for American Progress analysis estimates over 34,000 annual deaths as a result. Governor Beshear believes these cuts will significantly damage Republican support, even among their own constituents.
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In response to reports of a U.S. peace proposal that would entail de jure recognition of Russia’s annexation of Crimea, Ukrainian President Zelensky reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to its constitutional principles and territorial integrity, citing a 2018 U.S. declaration condemning Russia’s actions. This statement follows previous Ukrainian rejection of territorial concessions and contrasts with reports suggesting a broader U.S. proposal encompassing de facto acceptance of Russian occupation in other Ukrainian regions. Despite heightened tensions, a London peace meeting proceeded, with Ukrainian officials emphasizing the importance of a ceasefire. The White House denied any request for Ukrainian recognition of Crimea as Russian territory.
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Bill Owens, executive producer of “60 Minutes,” resigned, citing interference with his editorial independence. This follows a $20 billion lawsuit filed by Donald Trump, alleging deceptive editing in a Kamala Harris interview, a claim CBS denies. Jake Tapper connected Owens’s resignation to Shari Redstone’s potential sale of Paramount to Skydance Media, suggesting Redstone might settle the lawsuit to appease Trump and secure FCC approval. Legal experts deem Trump’s lawsuit meritless, yet its timing and potential implications for the sale remain highly suspect.
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Growing dissent against Hamas is evident in Gaza, with Palestinians openly protesting the group’s rule and blaming it for the territory’s dire crisis. Demonstrations featuring chants like “All of Hamas, out!” and “Hamas is garbage” highlight widespread discontent. Critics argue that Hamas’s actions have inextricably linked Gaza’s fate to its own, demanding the group relinquish control. This defiance underscores a disconnect between the global perception of Hamas as synonymous with Gaza and the reality of Palestinian opposition to its leadership.
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Early Thursday, Russia launched a devastating missile and drone attack on Kyiv, killing at least eight people and injuring over 60, marking the deadliest assault on the capital in nine months. The attack, involving 70 missiles and 145 drones, targeted infrastructure and residential areas, leaving some trapped under rubble. Moscow claimed all targets were hit, while Zelensky, cutting short a visit to South Africa, immediately sought increased international support for air defenses. This attack followed a public dispute between Zelensky and Donald Trump, further complicating ongoing peace negotiations.
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A large-scale Russian attack on Kyiv on April 24th involved Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles, Caliber cruise missiles, and Shahed drones, resulting in widespread damage and casualties. At least nine fatalities and 70 injuries were reported, with numerous civilians hospitalized, including children. The assault targeted civilian infrastructure, with additional missile strikes reported in Kharkiv and Pavlohrad. The ongoing attacks highlight the persistent threat to Ukrainian civilians.
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New polling data from Harvard reveals a decline in President Trump’s support among young men, attributed to his economic policies. Bloomberg News’ David Gura and Tim Miller of the Bulwark Podcast joined Nicolle Wallace to analyze these findings. The discussion focused on the impact of the President’s economic performance on this key demographic. This shift in support highlights a potential vulnerability for the President’s reelection campaign.
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Ukraine summoned Chinese Ambassador Ma Shengkun to address concerns about Chinese citizens fighting alongside Russia and Chinese companies manufacturing weapons for the Russian military. Deputy Foreign Minister Yevhen Perebyinis presented evidence of this support to the ambassador, urging China to cease all aid to Russia’s aggression. While acknowledging the strategic partnership between Ukraine and China, Perebyinis stressed that such actions contradict this relationship. Ukraine hopes China will refrain from further actions detrimental to bilateral ties. This meeting follows previous Ukrainian claims of Chinese weapons supply to Russia, which China has denied.
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John Q. Hosedrinker