U.S. Resumes Military Aid to Ukraine After Ceasefire Agreement

The United States has agreed to resume military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine following Ukraine’s acceptance of a Trump administration proposal for a 30-day ceasefire. The agreement, announced after high-level talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, marks a significant shift in U.S.-Ukraine relations after aid was previously frozen. Ukraine has proposed halting air and sea attacks, engaging in diplomatic talks, and negotiating the return of Ukrainian prisoners and children taken to Russia. The ceasefire is contingent on Russian acceptance, which remains uncertain. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the offer is now in Russia’s hands, emphasizing that a rejection would highlight the "impediment to peace." While Ukrainian officials expressed gratitude for renewed U.S. engagement, concerns remain over whether Russia will accept the ceasefire or view it as a Ukrainian attempt to regroup. Russian nationalist commentators have already criticized the proposal, arguing it undermines Russian advances.

Sources: NPR

U.S. Education Department Fires Over 1,300 Workers

The U.S. Department of Education announced the firing of more than 1,300 employees, significantly reducing the agency responsible for federal student loans, civil rights enforcement, and education policy. The move follows President Trump’s long-stated goal of dismantling the department, shifting its responsibilities to other agencies, and prioritizing state and local control over education. The cuts, which leave the department with less than half of its previous workforce, have sparked criticism from unions and education advocates, who warn that the most vulnerable students will bear the brunt of the changes. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon defended the layoffs as a push for efficiency, stating that key student aid programs would not be affected.

The Trump administration is also exploring options to transfer education-related functions to other federal agencies. Reports indicate that student loans could be handled by the Treasury Department, civil rights enforcement by the Justice Department, and services for disabled students by the Department of Health and Human Services. Trump has also signaled plans to sign an executive order aimed at closing the department altogether, though such a move would require congressional approval.

Sources: The New York Times

China’s New Goal: Map the Ocean Floor

China is rapidly expanding its oceanographic research efforts, deploying a fleet of vessels to conduct extensive sea floor mapping in international and foreign waters. While Beijing claims these missions are purely scientific, the data collected has significant military applications, including submarine tracking and deep-sea mineral extraction. Countries such as India, Japan, and Australia have protested China’s activities, with concerns that its research ships are being used to advance Beijing’s strategic and geopolitical interests.

Sources: The Wall Street Journal

Trump Raises Steel and Aluminum Tariffs to 25%

President Donald Trump has increased tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports to 25%, removing previous exemptions and signaling a renewed push to bring manufacturing jobs back to the U.S. The move is part of a broader trade strategy targeting imports from Canada, Mexico, China, the European Union, Brazil, and South Korea. Trump argues that the tariffs will pressure companies to relocate production to the U.S., despite concerns about rising costs for manufacturers that rely on these metals. Economists warn that while the steel and aluminum industries may benefit, the increased costs could negatively impact downstream industries, potentially offsetting any job gains.

Sources: Associated Press

U.S. Stock Market Struggles Amid Tariff Uncertainty

The U.S. stock market is experiencing increased volatility as investors react to President Donald Trump’s tariffs, with the S&P 500 attempting to rebound from a recent slump that has left it close to correction territory. The index closed 0.8% lower on Tuesday at 5,572.07, and fears of a trade-driven economic slowdown have rattled Wall Street. Trump’s tariff policies, particularly the 25% duty on all steel and aluminum imports, have created uncertainty for businesses and investors. While the president argues that the tariffs will encourage companies to expand U.S. manufacturing, market analysts warn of potential inflationary pressures and slower economic growth.

Sources: MarketWatch