1. Diplomatic & Security Moves
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Deal for Patriot missile support to Ukraine: President Trump met with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte and announced that European countries will fund and send U.S.-made Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine. He also threatened 100% tariffs on any country trading with Russia if no peace deal is reached in 50 days.
2. Domestic Policy & Legal Actions
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School funding lawsuit: Maryland and 23 other states, plus D.C., are suing the White House over withholding of $6.8 billion in federal school funding.
State Department layoffs: The administration plans to lay off over 1,000 State Department employees, citing inefficiencies, but critics warn this will weaken U.S. diplomacy.
3. Economic & Regulatory Updates
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Inflation update: According to a White House statement, core inflation remains around 2.1% under Trump’s policies, with recent reports showing stable prices for vehicles, food, and transportation.
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Budget savings deal: A $9 billion spending-cut package was agreed upon, preserving $400 million for the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief while trimming other programs.
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Fed probe intensifies: The White House opened an investigation into a $2.5 billion Federal Reserve HQ renovation, increasing speculation about a possible attempt to remove Chair Jerome Powell.
4. Epstein Files Controversy
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Calls for transparency: Lara Trump and others are urging the White House to publicly release more details from the Jeffrey Epstein case. FBI deputy director Dan Bongino reportedly threatened to resign amid internal pressure.