Despite Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s refusal of two draft agreements demanding $500 billion in compensation—including mineral, oil, and gas revenues—for US support against Russia, former President Trump claims a final deal is imminent. This deal would reportedly grant the US access to Ukraine’s substantial mineral reserves, including rare earths. Zelenskyy firmly rejected the initial proposals, citing the exorbitant and intergenerational cost. Trump, however, maintains the agreement will be mutually beneficial.
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Trump’s directive to federal employees to detail their weekly activities was defended as a necessary measure to identify non-existent or unproductive workers, thereby addressing alleged government inefficiencies and misallocation of funds. Critics, however, argued the measure was illegal. Trump’s justification centered on weeding out ghost employees and ensuring accountability within the federal workforce. The policy aimed to verify the employment status of federal workers and determine whether taxpayer money was being appropriately utilized. This approach was met with legal challenges.
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In a significant policy shift, the United States sided with Russia against a UN General Assembly resolution condemning the war in Ukraine, marking a divergence from its traditional stance and its European allies. This alignment continued in a subsequent UN Security Council vote on a US-proposed resolution that avoided explicitly blaming Russia or affirming Ukraine’s territorial integrity. The US resolution, while passing the Security Council, drew sharp criticism from European nations for failing to address Russia’s aggression. The General Assembly resolution, conversely, garnered overwhelming support, demanding Russia’s complete withdrawal from Ukraine. This unprecedented US-Russia collaboration on a UN resolution regarding the war in Ukraine has raised significant international concerns.
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During a February 24th meeting with French President Macron, President Trump declined to label Vladimir Putin a dictator, citing a preference for observing unfolding events. This contrasts with his prior labeling of Ukrainian President Zelensky as a dictator, a statement echoing Russian propaganda and ignoring Ukraine’s martial law. Trump’s comments came amidst negotiations for a potentially lucrative minerals deal with Ukraine, valued at $500 billion, though the deal’s fairness has been questioned. Further meetings with Zelensky and UK Prime Minister Starmer are scheduled.
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The core message, delivered by a Finnish President—presumably to Donald Trump—is stark and direct: a Putin victory in Ukraine translates to an American defeat. This isn’t about abstract geopolitical strategy; it’s about hitting Trump where it hurts. The problem, as many have observed, isn’t the message itself, but the framing. Appealing to Trump’s sense of patriotism or national interest is futile; he’s primarily driven by self-preservation and personal gain.
Therefore, the argument must be reframed to directly impact Trump’s own interests. Suggesting that a Putin win equates to a personal loss for Trump is far more effective than highlighting potential damage to the US.… Continue reading
Despite convivial appearances, Macron’s Oval Office meeting with Trump revealed strained transatlantic relations, particularly regarding the Ukraine war. A notable disagreement arose when Macron corrected Trump’s inaccurate claim that Europe only loaned money to Ukraine, stating Europe contributed 60% of the total aid. While Trump expressed openness to a European peacekeeping force and a deal securing Ukrainian mineral revenues, he maintained his controversial stance on the war’s origins and timeline, and his desire to meet with Putin. Macron’s strategy focused on managing the situation and emphasizing a united European front, coordinating with Starmer to present a unified approach to Trump.
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Norway pledged €3.5 billion in aid to Ukraine for 2025, highlighting a commitment to ongoing and potentially increased financial support. This substantial contribution follows similar announcements from Spain (€1 billion in military aid and a Ukrainian recovery hub) and the UK (expanded sanctions against Russia). The summit underscored continued international resolve to assist Ukraine’s defense and recovery efforts.
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Final negotiations between Ukrainian and U.S. teams regarding a minerals agreement are nearing completion, with key details largely finalized. Deputy Prime Minister Olga Stefanishyna anticipates a swift conclusion and signing, potentially during a meeting between U.S. and Ukrainian leaders in Washington. This agreement, according to a Trump ally, addresses repayment for U.S. aid to Ukraine. Following recent public pressure and calls for de-escalation, a successful outcome is anticipated.
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A Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) operation is responsible for explosions reported among Russian FPV drone goggles. HUR operatives purchased and rigged a large batch of goggles with explosives and a remote detonation system, which were then donated to Russian units through coordinated “volunteers.” The operation aimed to retaliate for Russian war crimes. While these claims remain unverified, the incident highlights the escalating use of drone technology in the conflict.
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During a Kyiv press conference marking the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that Canadian troop deployment to Ukraine remains a possibility. This consideration is part of Canada’s broader commitment to supporting Ukraine’s security, with Trudeau emphasizing that all options are being explored to aid in a potential peace agreement. The commitment to Ukrainian security is ongoing, and Canada’s involvement will take some form.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood