Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that his meeting with former US President Donald Trump at the NATO summit in The Hague was positive. The leaders discussed various topics, including the Middle East, protecting Ukrainian citizens, the procurement of American air defense systems, and the Istanbul talks between Ukrainian and Russian delegations. Zelenskyy also presented Trump with battlefield updates, emphasizing that Russia was not prevailing. The 45-minute meeting occurred after the main NATO leaders’ session and a declaration pledging support for Ukraine’s armed forces.
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President Donald Trump arrived in The Hague for his first NATO summit since returning to office, a meeting overshadowed by escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, despite a previously called-for ceasefire. Trump expressed displeasure with both nations for allegedly violating the truce, suggesting Israel overreacted to Iranian missile launches. Key objectives for the summit included securing commitments from NATO members to increase defense spending to 5% of their GDP by 2035, with 3.5% allocated to “hard defense,” and reiterating support for Ukraine, including counting military aid towards defense spending goals. The summit’s agenda was carefully managed to project unity, with a focus on a closed-door working session and a single-page communique.
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During a recent exchange on Air Force One, President Trump appeared to mistakenly blame his predecessor, Joe Biden, for allowing “supercells” into the United States, intending to refer to potential terrorist “sleeper cells” from Iran. These comments were made in response to questions about potential Iranian retaliation following recent strikes. Trump further criticized Biden’s competence, asserting the former president’s actions should not be forgotten. The president’s remarks occurred while en route to a NATO summit in the Netherlands, where discussions regarding global instability and Article Five of NATO’s provisions for mutual defense are expected.
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Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that President Trump is no longer interested in annexing Canada, according to a recent interview. This declaration follows similar statements from the US ambassador to Canada, suggesting the annexation discussions are over. Carney also acknowledged Trump’s influence in encouraging higher Canadian defense spending and the potential for decisive action in the Middle East, although the priority there remains establishing a ceasefire and humanitarian aid. Finally, Carney praised Iran’s “proportionate” response to a US military action.
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A leaked TikTok video captured former Representative Matt Gaetz texting his mother, revealing his efforts to influence former President Donald Trump’s stance on potential involvement in the Iran-Israel conflict. In the texts, Gaetz discussed “guiding” Trump on foreign policy, asserting his ability to influence the former president’s decisions, and shared private family news. The video also highlighted Gaetz’s opposition to U.S. intervention in the conflict, echoing sentiments expressed on his show, where he criticized Trump’s advisors. Gaetz responded to the video stating that he was recorded without his knowledge, and he stated that he was texting his mother about news of the day and family finances.
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In an effort to downsize the federal workforce, the Trump administration initiated layoffs and voluntary retirements, but many of these actions have been reversed. Agencies are now rehiring employees and ordering others back from leave to fill critical gaps in services. This backtracking highlights a loss of expertise and capacity within the government, which experts fear could lead to serious issues. Several departments, including Health and Human Services and the National Weather Service, have rehired numerous employees, driven by the need to maintain essential services, while the administration is still implementing its “reduction-in-force” plans.
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Following Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s call for his impeachment due to his actions in Iran, former President Trump responded with a lengthy Truth Social post. Trump attacked Ocasio-Cortez’s intelligence and qualifications for office, while also criticizing other Democratic congresswomen. He challenged her to take a cognitive test, similar to one he previously completed. Furthermore, Trump belittled her district and predicted electoral challenges for her and other Democrats.
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Following President Trump’s criticism of her call for impeachment, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez responded on X. Trump had called her “stupid” for her stance on his decision to strike Iranian nuclear facilities. Ocasio-Cortez retorted by urging Trump to direct his anger towards those who advised him and accused him of violating the Constitution and breaking his promises. Trump had earlier criticized her on X, attributing her “rantings” to the success of his administration and questioning her qualifications for office.
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Following Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s statements regarding President Trump’s authorization of strikes on Iran, Trump challenged her to pursue impeachment proceedings. Trump suggested Ocasio-Cortez should focus on her own political standing, referencing low poll numbers. Ocasio-Cortez responded by criticizing Trump’s actions regarding Iran, asserting it violated the Constitution and warranted impeachment. In addition, Representative Al Green introduced new Articles of Impeachment against Trump, citing violations of the War Powers Clause.
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Recent polling data indicates a significant downturn in President Donald Trump’s approval ratings. Several polls, including those from Ipsos/Reuters and the American Research Group, show Trump’s net approval at record lows for his second term. While the Morning Consult poll did not reflect an all-time low, it still showed a notable decline in his approval. Despite some polls recording slight gains, the overall trend points to a decline, potentially influenced by factors such as tariffs and the U.S.’s potential involvement in the conflict between Israel and Iran.
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John Q. Hosedrinker