The U.S. Senate voted 52-46 on February 10 to advance Tulsi Gabbard's nomination for Director of National Intelligence (DNI), setting the stage for a confirmation vote later this week. The vote, which was largely along party lines, saw Republicans supporting Gabbard, while Democrats opposed her. Gabbard, a former Democrat and Army National Guard veteran, has faced criticism for her lack of intelligence experience and past controversial statements, including her defense of Syria's Bashar al-Assad and remarks perceived as sympathetic to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Despite these concerns, Republican Senate Majority Leader John Thune praised Gabbard for agreeing to streamline the DNI office, aligning with the Trump administration's goal of reducing government size. The Senate Intelligence Committee recommended Gabbard’s nomination by a narrow 9-8 vote. Gabbard can afford to lose only three Republican votes if Democrats remain united in opposition for her confirmation.
Ahead of the global AI summit in Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron spoke exclusively with Firstpost and France TV. Advocating for sustainable and "frugal" AI, he acknowledged that "all countries" trail behind the US in AI training capabilities. Macron also pledged to join Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in pushing for tech sovereignty at this week's summit. Watch his full conversation with Palki Sharma.
French President Emmanuel Macron opposes excessive regulations that could hinder AI innovation. Ahead of the AI summit in Paris, he advocates for global AI regulations while warning that local restrictions might slow progress. With India co-chairing the summit, can New Delhi and Paris strike a balance between mitigating AI risks and maximising its benefits?
On February 9, 2025, President Donald Trump announced plans to impose new 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports into the United States, applying to all countries, including major suppliers like Canada, Brazil, and Mexico. These tariffs will be officially announced soon. Additionally, Trump stated that the U.S. would match tariffs imposed by countries that tax U.S. imports. He also clarified his stance on Nippon Steel's potential investment in U.S. Steel, allowing it with a non-majority stake. On the Middle East, Trump expressed his commitment to "buying and owning" Gaza, aiming to rebuild it with help from other Middle Eastern nations, ensuring safety for Palestinians. He also opened the door for Palestinian refugees to enter the U.S. on a case-by-case basis. Trump further mentioned progress in U.S. efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war, indicating ongoing communication with both Russia and Ukraine but withholding specific details.
French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that he and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will advocate for tech sovereignty at this week's AI summit in Paris. Speaking exclusively to Firstpost and France TV, Macron addressed the possibility of India and Europe presenting a "third way" in AI, distinct from China and the US. Hear his response to Palki Sharma.
French President Emmanuel Macron dismisses fears of AI replacing humans, viewing it instead as an assistant that accelerates routine tasks. On the eve of the AI summit in Paris, he stresses the need for workforce training to adapt to evolving technology. With India co-chairing the summit, how are New Delhi and Paris preparing their citizens for an AI-driven future?
French President Emmanuel Macron discusses the potential of Artificial Intelligence as India co-chairs the AI summit in Paris. He emphasises the need for France, Europe, and partners like India to capitalise on AI’s opportunities. Highlighting AI’s transformative impact on medicine, Macron aims to harness its power at the upcoming summit.
After spending over a year in Hamas captivity, five Thai hostages have finally returned home to an emotional reunion in Bangkok. Overcome with joy, they embraced their loved ones at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Thailand’s Foreign Minister led the welcome, while efforts continue to bring back one remaining Thai hostage and the bodies of two deceased nationals. Watch the heartfelt homecoming and the latest updates on Thailand's repatriation efforts.
“To err is human, to forgive divine” this is what the Department of Government Efficiency lead Elon Musk said while talking about his contemplation on rehiring a DOGE staffer who had been previously fired for posting racist comments. According to The Hill, Marko Elez resigned on Thursday after The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) revealed several racist posts made from a now-deleted account
On February 6, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump authorized economic and travel sanctions against individuals involved in International Criminal Court (ICC) investigations targeting U.S. citizens or allies like Israel, a move echoing actions from his first term. This decision coincided with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington, with Netanyahu, his former defense minister, and Hamas leaders facing ICC arrest warrants for alleged war crimes in Gaza. The ICC, established in 2002, prosecutes genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and crimes of aggression. While its 124 signatory states are legally obligated to arrest individuals under ICC warrants, enforcement relies on state cooperation. There have been cases of non-compliance, such as Sudan's Omar al-Bashir, and Russia's 2016 withdrawal from the Rome Statute. Leaders like Russia's Vladimir Putin, Israel's Netanyahu, and Hamas leaders face ICC warrants, though they have denied the charges, with critics questioning the ICC’s impartiality and decision-making.
A federal judge in Seattle, U.S. District Judge John Coughenour, ruled on February 6 that Donald Trump’s executive order attempting to limit birthright citizenship is unconstitutional. The order, signed on January 20, sought to deny citizenship to children born in the U.S. after February 19 if neither of their parents is a U.S. citizen or lawful resident. The ruling, which extended a temporary block placed two weeks earlier, was met with applause in the courtroom. The case, brought by Democratic-led states and several pregnant women, argued that the order violated the 14th Amendment, which guarantees citizenship to anyone born in the U.S. This decision marks the second nationwide injunction blocking the order, following one issued by a Maryland judge. Additional hearings in Boston and New Hampshire are scheduled. Trump’s administration is expected to appeal, but for now, the order remains blocked.
Beijing strongly opposes former US President Donald Trump's proposal to permanently displace Gazans and have the US take over the region. The Chinese Foreign Ministry reaffirmed its stance against forced displacement, aligning with global leaders supporting a two-state solution.
U.S. President Donald Trump has reimposed sanctions on individuals involved in ICC investigations of U.S. citizens and allies like Israel. The move coincides with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington, as the ICC pursues war crime charges against him, his ex-defence minister, and a Hamas leader over the Gaza conflict. The sanctions freeze U.S. assets and impose travel bans. The ICC has yet to respond. Trump previously sanctioned ICC officials in 2020 over Afghanistan war probes. The U.S., Israel, China, and Russia are not ICC members and have long opposed its jurisdiction over their nationals.
After meeting with President Trump, Texas Governor Greg Abbott demanded an $11 billion reimbursement for border security expenditures, highlighting the state’s investment in a border wall, military facilities, and a massive fentanyl seizure of over 600 million doses. Meanwhile, Mexico deployed 10,000 troops along its northern frontier amid tariff threats from Trump. Mexican National Guard and Army units bolstered security near Ciudad Juárez, El Paso, and Tijuana, removing contraband equipment and reinforcing patrols. In exchange for delaying tariffs, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum promised a crackdown on fentanyl smuggling, while the U.S. vowed to combat gun trafficking fueling cartel violence actively.
The U.S. government has allegedly reached an agreement allowing its ships to use the Panama Canal for free, which is expected to save millions in fees annually. However, the Panama Canal Authority has denied this claim. The news comes as the Panama Canal becomes a point of contention in U.S. foreign policy under President Donald Trump. Trump has criticized China's influence over the Canal and accused Panama of overcharging U.S. vessels. He even threatened to retake control of the Canal, citing concerns over regional financial security. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently visited Panama and held discussions with President Jose Raul Mulino, leading Panama to review China’s role in Canal operations. Panama also announced it would let its involvement in China’s Belt and Road Initiative expire. China, in turn, expressed dissatisfaction with U.S. remarks regarding its involvement in the Canal but stated cooperation with Panama remains unaffected.
On February 5, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to exclude transgender girls and women from participating in female-designated sports. The directive mandates the Department of Justice to enforce a ban on transgender athletes in school sports, based on Trump’s interpretation of Title IX, which prohibits sex discrimination in federally funded educational programs. The order requires immediate enforcement across schools nationwide, with investigations led by the Department of Education to ensure compliance. However, if the department is dismantled as Trump has proposed, enforcement could shift to other agencies. Supporters, including Republicans, argue that the ban restores fairness to women’s sports, claiming transgender women have physical advantages from male puberty. Critics, however, contend that the decision infringes on the rights of transgender athletes, who represent a small minority. The ongoing debate centers on fairness and whether transgender women possess a competitive edge in sports.
Bangladesh on boil again as an angry mob vandalised the memorial of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in Dhaka on Feb 05. Protestors vandalised his residence at Dhanmondi 32 and demanded a ban on the Awami League, the party he founded. The anger among the protesters was reportedly fuelled by an online speech by former PM Sheikh Hasina. This is not the first time that ousted PM Sheikh Hasina’s paternal house under attack. After the Awami League’s collapse on August 5, enraged demonstrators had earlier stormed the house, vandalizing it and setting parts ablaze
The US has deported 205 Indian nationals on a C-17 military aircraft, marking the first-ever military deportation flight to India. Instead of Delhi-NCR, the plane is landing in Amritsar, Punjab. Why this shift? What happens to the deportees next? And how does this fit into the US crackdown on illegal immigration? Watch the full video for all the details!
Trump announced a 30-day delay on tariffs for Canada and Mexico after securing commitments on border security. Mexico agreed to deploy 10,000 soldiers to curb fentanyl smuggling, while Canada pledged $1.3 billion for border security, including appointing a "fentanyl czar." Markets initially plunged but rebounded after the tariff pause. Meanwhile, a 10% tariff on Chinese imports remains, with Trump warning of increases if fentanyl exports persist. China dismissed US concerns and plans to challenge the tariffs at the WTO. Despite the postponement, Trump signalled further tariff actions may follow, keeping trade tensions high. High-level negotiations continue.
President Donald Trump stated that he wants Ukraine to supply the U.S. with rare earth minerals in return for aid, emphasizing the need for “equalization” for the nearly $300 billion in support. He also addressed Panama, saying the country had agreed on “some things” after his threats over China’s influence on the canal. Trump signed an executive order to create a sovereign wealth fund, suggesting it could purchase TikTok, though details remain unclear. He also defended Elon Musk’s role in shrinking the U.S. government, stating that Musk’s actions are approved and that he “will not be allowed” into conflicts.
French President Emmanuel Macron reacts to US President Trump's tariff threats against the EU at a summit in Brussels. EU leaders convene to discuss bolstering defense capabilities amid global uncertainties, including tensions with Russia. Macron emphasizes the EU's stance on trade and military spending, signaling potential reactions to trade challenges from the US.
Investors on Monday bought dollars, sold stocks and worried about inflation. A scramble ensued to assess the risk of a trade war after Donald Trump put tariffs on top U.S. trading partners. Trump's ordered additional levies of 25% on imports from Mexico and most goods from Canada, as well as 10% on goods from China. They're set to take effect on Tuesday, and will affect $1.3 trillion of goods, or more than 40% of all U.S. imports. The pan-European STOXX 600 index was down over 1% in early trade, set for its biggest one-day slide this year. And the euro currency also dropped more than 1%
US President Donald Trump’s 90-day foreign aid pause led to the removal of USAID security officials after they blocked access to Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) representatives. Tensions escalated as DOGE personnel accessed restricted areas, sparking Musk’s criticism, calling USAID a "criminal organization." With Trump considering dissolving USAID, concerns arose about merging it with the State Department. Republican Brian Mast supports this, while Democrats argue it’s unconstitutional. USAID, created in 1961, has been the U.S.’s humanitarian arm, funding global aid and health programs. Critics fear Trump's actions may eliminate USAID’s independent status, creating a constitutional crisis.
On Sunday, February 2, the Israeli military conducted simultaneous explosions in the Jenin refugee camp, demolishing around 20 buildings. This move is part of an ongoing operation targeting local militants and weapons stockpiles. The operation, which began on January 21, has led to clashes between Israeli forces and militants. While the Jenin Government Hospital was partially damaged, no casualties were reported. Hamas called for an escalation in resistance against Israel following the demolitions. At least 25 Palestinians have been killed since the operation started, with Israeli forces claiming to have killed 35 militants and detained over 100 individuals
President Donald Trump reiterated his vow to "take back" the Panama Canal, warning of "powerful" U.S. action over alleged Chinese influence. His remarks followed Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s meeting with Panama’s President Raúl Mulino, who reaffirmed Panama’s sovereignty while acknowledging U.S. concerns. Mulino announced Panama would exit China’s Belt and Road Initiative and seek U.S. investments. Rubio hinted at U.S. intervention under a 1977 treaty if security threats arise. Meanwhile, Panama is auditing a Chinese-linked port operator. Mulino downplayed military action risks but stressed legal steps would follow the audit’s findings.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio visits Panama City for crucial talks with President Jose Paul Mulino. They discuss the future of the Panama Canal amid renewed U.S. interest and concerns over Chinese influence. Stay tuned for insights into the potential new directions these discussions could take.
President Donald Trump discussed several key issues where he indicated that he would likely decide whether to impose a 25% tariff on oil imports from Mexico and Canada, contingent on the two countries halting fentanyl shipments and migration flows. Trump also outlined plans to expand Guantanamo Bay detention facilities, emphasizing minimal costs due to existing infrastructure. Regarding border security, he proposed redeploying IRS agents hired under the Biden administration to assist Border Patrol and expressed confidence that Egypt and Jordan would cooperate in accepting displaced individuals from Gaza. Trump reaffirmed his offer for over 2 million federal workers to resign with replacements readily available. He also touched on birthright citizenship, expressing belief that the Supreme Court would limit it. Lastly, Trump reiterated the U.S. is not involved in Syria and dismissed speculation about Taiwan independence negotiations with China.
On January 30, President Trump allegedly implied without evidence that federal diversity efforts might have contributed to a deadly crash at Washington’s Reagan National Airport. A regional jet operated by American Airlines collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, killing 67 people in the deadliest U.S. air disaster in over 20 years. The crash investigation is ongoing, with no clear cause determined. Both aircraft were following standard flight paths, and air traffic controllers had warned the helicopter about the approaching jet. Trump criticized the helicopter pilots and suggested diversity initiatives weakened air traffic control capabilities, although no evidence supports this claim. Concerns about crowded airspace and a shortage of air traffic controllers in the region have raised safety issues. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating and expects a preliminary report within 30 days. Trump’s remarks drew backlash from Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who called them misleading.
Tulsi Gabbard, President Donald Trump's nominee for Director of National Intelligence, faced bipartisan criticism during her confirmation hearing. Concerns were raised over her past comments sympathetic to Russia, support for Edward Snowden, and opposition to surveillance programs. Gabbard criticized U.S. intelligence failures, vowing to end politicization and protect whistleblowers. Despite her military background, critics questioned her lack of intelligence experience and feared further politicization under Trump’s second term. Her nomination, announced in November, shocked national security officials. The hearing coincided with Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s controversial hearing as Trump’s health agency pick, amid accusations of anti-vaccine views.
Ahmed al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, became Syria’s interim president after leading the offensive that toppled Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Born in 1982 in Damascus to a wealthy family, al-Sharaa’s radicalization began after the September 11 attacks. He joined al-Qaeda in Iraq, fought under Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, and was later detained by U.S. forces. In 2011, he founded Al-Nusra Front, which later became Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group tied to al-Qaeda. Despite being labeled a terrorist by the U.S., al-Sharaa distanced himself from al-Qaeda in 2016 and rebranded HTS as a nationalist entity. In recent years, he has adopted a more pragmatic approach, promising inclusive governance and women’s rights, while also adopting a more moderate public image. His past leadership of HTS, known for suppressing dissent, has raised concerns about his ability to govern effectively and fairly in post-Assad Syria.
On January 28, a Thornton Township Board of Trustees meeting descended into chaos when a brawl broke out. The conflict started after activist Jedidiah Brown directed an expletive at Dolton Mayor Tiffany Henyard during public comments, which led to a physical altercation among attendees. Henyard was seen joining the fight. A video of the incident surfaced on social media, with Reuters confirming the location and date through analysis. Police intervened to de-escalate the situation, and attendees began leaving the scene as order was restored. The event drew attention due to the violence that erupted during the public meeting.
U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Dr. Anthony Fauci could not have government-provided security indefinitely and should hire his own. Trump confirmed that security had been withdrawn from multiple officials, including former national security adviser John Bolton, ex-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and former Iran envoy Brian Hook. Fauci, who led the U.S. COVID-19 response, had received NIH security due to threats. Trump dismissed concerns, stating that officials had "made a lot of money" and should fund their own protection. He refused responsibility if harm came to them, emphasising that government security is not meant to last forever.
A U.S. judge temporarily blocked part of the Trump administration’s directive to freeze federal loans, grants, and other financial assistance. This freeze, which was set to affect billions of dollars in funding for education, healthcare, disaster relief, and other essential programs, was scheduled to take effect on January 29 but was halted by U.S. District Judge Loren AliKhan until February 3. The White House had implemented the freeze to align federal spending with President Trump’s recent executive orders, particularly those ending diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Several states, including New York, Massachusetts, and California, filed a lawsuit to protect essential federal funding, especially for Medicaid. Critics, including law professors, argued the freeze violated Congress's control over public funding. While the Justice Department had not yet responded, the White House maintained that the freeze would not affect programs Americans rely on. Another court hearing is scheduled to discuss the matter further.
President Donald Trump regaled House Republicans on Monday with a rhetorical highlight reel from his first week in office, and he urged them to support his immigration crackdown and border security proposals. “We have no apologies and we’re moving very fast," Trump said. He said that “I really focus on the border more than anything else," downplaying the importance of inflation, an issue that fueled his candidacy last year but one that he has less control over as president. Speaking at House Republicans' annual policy retreat, Trump made clear his political ambitions as he rallied lawmakers to advance their conservative agenda. The conference is being held at Trump National Doral Miami, a posh resort with four golf courses owned by the billionaire president. Although Republicans are euphoric over election victories that have given them total control in Washington, they're also facing difficult negotiations in the coming weeks and months.
The U.S. military released footage of Marines fortifying the barrier on the border with Mexico, as the Trump administration took steps to curb illegal immigration. The footage showed U.S. Marines reinforcing the border fence on Saturday (January 25) with metal beams and barbed wire.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump discussed advancing the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, focusing on trade, defence, energy, and technology. Modi congratulated Trump on his second term, pledging mutual efforts for global peace and prosperity. The conversation addressed US concerns over trade imbalances and irregular immigration, with India seeking time to verify the origins of 18,000 migrants slated for deportation. Both leaders plan to meet at France’s AI summit and are arranging bilateral visits. The talks reinforced the strength of India-US ties while acknowledging challenges like visa delays, trade tensions, and disruptive immigration policies.
Iran has unveiled its largest-ever drone, named "Gaza," in honor of the Palestinian enclave devastated by over a year of war. The drone, which can carry up to 12 bombs, was inspected by Major General Hossein Salami and Amir Ali Hajizadeh of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). It is primarily intended for border operations. The Gaza Strip, home to 2.3 million Palestinians before the conflict, has suffered massive destruction following 15 months of fighting between Israel and Hamas. Israel launched its campaign in Gaza after Hamas carried out an attack on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200 Israelis and taking over 250 hostages. Since then, Israeli military actions have resulted in the deaths of over 47,000 Palestinians, according to local health authorities. The unveiling of the "Gaza" drone reflects Iran’s ongoing support for Hamas and its commitment to strengthening its military capabilities amid the ongoing conflict.
John Ratcliffe was sworn in as the new CIA Director after the Senate confirmed him with a 74-25 vote. Ratcliffe, a Texas Republican and former federal prosecutor, previously served as the Director of National Intelligence under President Donald Trump. He is the first person to hold both positions. Ratcliffe emphasized the need for the CIA to enhance its use of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, to address threats from adversaries like Russia and China. Additionally, he stressed the importance of balancing improved intelligence capabilities with the protection of Americans' civil rights. His confirmation marks a significant step in Trump’s Cabinet reshuffle.
On January 23, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an order to declassify government files related to the assassinations of John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy, and Martin Luther King Jr. Trump had promised to release these documents during his 2016 campaign and again during his 2017-2021 term. While he did release some documents regarding JFK’s 1963 assassination, he ultimately withheld a significant portion, citing national security concerns and pressure from the CIA and FBI. JFK’s assassination, officially attributed to Lee Harvey Oswald, continues to spark public interest and conspiracy theories, with many Americans doubting the lone gunman theory. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., son of Robert F. Kennedy and nephew of JFK, has publicly stated his belief that the CIA was involved in his uncle’s death, although the agency rejects this claim as baseless. Trump’s move to declassify these files may provide more insight into these historical events.
A federal judge temporarily blocked President Trump's executive order redefining birthright citizenship, deeming it "blatantly unconstitutional." The order, set to take effect on February 19, aimed to limit citizenship to children of U.S. citizens or legal residents, challenging the 14th Amendment's guarantee of citizenship to anyone born in the U.S. This move was contested in lawsuits from 22 states and immigrant rights groups, including a case from Arizona, Illinois, Oregon, and Washington. The judge, John Coughenour, criticized the order, stating it was clearly unconstitutional. The Trump administration argued that no harm had been done yet and that the order only applied to future births. The order could impact hundreds of thousands of births in immigrant communities. The lawsuits cite the 14th Amendment and Supreme Court precedents affirming birthright citizenship, with the Trump administration planning to appeal the judge’s decision.
On January 22, a rapidly spreading wildfire broke out 50 miles north of Los Angeles, burning over 3,400 acres and forcing evacuations in the Castaic Lake area. The fire, fueled by dry conditions and strong Santa Ana winds, escalated quickly, with evacuation orders affecting 31,000 people. This new blaze, known as the Hughes Fire, further strained firefighting efforts already focused on two major fires, the Eaton and Palisades Fires. These fires, which had been burning for over two weeks, had already claimed 28 lives and destroyed nearly 16,000 structures. By January 22, the Eaton Fire was 91% contained, and the Palisades Fire was 68% contained. In response to the extreme fire risk, more than 1,000 firefighters were deployed, and much of Southern California remained under red-flag warnings. Despite ongoing efforts, the region's dry conditions and persistent winds continued to fuel the fires, challenging containment efforts.
Donald Trump is back in the White House, and his policies are already shaking up the world! From proposing to rename the Gulf of Mexico to shifting global alliances, Trump's second term promises big changes. In this video, we explore key ways his return will impact trade, immigration, the Middle East, and more. Watch now and share your thoughts—how will Trump 2.0 reshape the future?
On the tenth day of the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath convened a special Cabinet meeting in Prayagraj. After the meeting, CM Yogi and all 54 ministers took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. The meeting was held at Triveni Sankul in Arail, with DGP Prashant Kumar briefing the media about the preparations and the plan for the event. After the meeting, the Cabinet ministers traveled from Arail VIP Ghat to the Sangam by motorboats, where they performed rituals before taking a ceremonial dip. This event is part of CM Yogi’s tradition of leading his cabinet members to the Sangam for a holy bath during significant religious gatherings. A similar event was held during the Kumbh Mela in 2019, when CM Yogi, along with his ministers, participated in the ceremonial dip alongside saints and religious leaders.
On Tuesday afternoon, Donald Trump spoke to reporters about several topics, including the Russia-Ukraine war, tariffs, and the TikTok app. Trump reiterated that he expects to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin “very soon” and insisted that the Russian invasion of Ukraine would never have happened if he had been president. He attributed the conflict to Putin disrespecting President Biden, claiming that he and Putin shared a strong understanding. Trump also responded to questions about TikTok, which has been banned from federal devices due to concerns over Chinese espionage. While Trump acknowledged that he hadn’t yet installed the app, he mentioned that he was considering it and praised TikTok for its effectiveness in engaging young voters. Trump emphasized his positive view of the platform, saying he has a "warm spot in my heart" for it. Additionally, Trump spoke about his stance on tariffs toward Mexico, Canada, and China, though those comments were not detailed.
U.S. President Donald Trump expressed openness to the idea of Elon Musk purchasing the popular social media app TikTok, should the Tesla CEO be interested. This follows concerns about national security risks related to TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, with a law requiring the app’s U.S. operations to be sold. Trump also signed an executive order on January 20 to delay the law’s enforcement by 75 days. In addition to this, Trump announced a significant $500 billion private sector investment plan for AI infrastructure in the U.S., spearheaded by a joint venture called Stargate, involving companies like OpenAI, SoftBank, and Oracle. This venture will create over 100,000 jobs and focus on rapidly building data centers to support AI demands. Oracle’s Larry Ellison confirmed the construction of large-scale data centers in Texas. The initiative follows the rollback of Biden’s executive order on AI, aimed at reducing potential risks.
President Donald Trump began his first full day in office attending a prayer service at the Washington National Cathedral on Tuesday (January 21) and got a sermon he may not have been expecting: an appeal to protect immigrants and respect gay rights. A day after declaring in his inauguration speech that there were only two genders in America and signing executive orders to crack down on immigrants, Episcopal Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde pleaded with Trump, from the pulpit, to show mercy on people. Watch here for more details -
On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed several executive orders, including significant actions such as ending birthright citizenship and directing the U.S. to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) within a year. This move also includes halting all U.S. financial contributions to the WHO, potentially jeopardizing global health programs aimed at tackling diseases like tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and other health crises. Additionally, Trump focused on reversing policies from the Biden administration, particularly those promoting racial equity and diversity within the federal government. Trump repealed 78 executive orders from Biden, including measures that supported LGBTQ+ rights and anti-discrimination efforts. Speaking on the day he signed the orders, Trump also addressed foreign policy issues, including his efforts to negotiate a deal to end the Russia-Ukraine war, cease oil purchases from Venezuela, and pressure NATO nations to increase defense spending. These actions reflect Trump’s broader political agenda and a return to his campaign promises.
After President Donald Trump mentioned again during his inauguration speech that he will seek to regain control of the Panama Canal, unionised workers marched on Monday (January 20) to the U.S. ambassador's residence in Panama City to protest the president's threats. "We do not accept Trump's declaration under any circumstances. Neither Trump, nor the 'gringos' (referring to U.S. citizens), nor their army, nor their government have anything to do in Panama," said Saul Mendez, secretary general of a construction workers union. Protesters holding Panama flags and shouting slogans burned a U.S. flag in front of the ambassador's house. During his inauguration speech on Monday inside the Rotunda of the U.S. Trump repeated his intention to take back control of the Panama Canal, one of several foreign policy pronouncements that have caused consternation among U.S. allies. Back in December 2024, then president-elect Trump had raised the same threat about seizing control of the canal, an 82-km (51-mile) artificial waterway connecting the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans that is a core international shipping route. Watch here for more details
Donald Trump moved swiftly to impose his will on the U.S. government as he reclaimed the presidency on Monday (January 20), taking steps to curb immigration, slash environmental regulations and withdraw from an international climate treaty. Cheered by a crowd at an indoor rally, Trump sat at a desk as he signed a series of executive orders in leather dossiers, the first steps in enacting a far-reaching agenda to expand America's territory, curb immigration, boost fossil fuel production and roll back environmental regulations. He said he would sign more such orders when he reached the White House
Donald Trump was sworn in as U.S. president for a second term, completing a stunning political comeback despite a felony conviction, assassination attempts, and past indictments. Prioritising border security, he plans executive actions, including sending troops to the southern border and ending birthright citizenship. The inauguration, held indoors due to extreme cold and security concerns, saw attendance by former presidents and prominent tech leaders. Trump pledged to restore the federal death penalty, end diversity initiatives, and pardon over 1,500 Capitol riot defendants. Meanwhile, he launched a controversial crypto token, and his administration promises sweeping changes, prioritising loyalty over institutionalism.