52Trump Directs 20,000-Officer Immigration Enforcement Expansion, Involves State and Local Police Amid Funding Uncertainty
President Donald Trump has ordered the Department of Homeland Security to expand its deportation force by 20,000 officers under 'Project Homecoming,' aiming to expedite the removal of undocumented immigrants. The plan involves deputizing state and local law enforcement and contracting former federal agents. Despite the initiative's scale, funding details remain unclear, raising logistical and legal concerns. The administration is promoting voluntary departure with financial incentives, but faces criticism from civil rights groups and questions about the feasibility of the expansion without congressional approval.
52President Trump’s Gulf Tour: Strengthening Economic Ties and Strategic Realignments Amid Middle East Tensions
U.S. President Donald Trump will visit Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE from May 13 to 16, focusing on economic partnerships, defense cooperation, and technology. The trip, amid Middle East tensions, includes meetings with Gulf Cooperation Council leaders. Trump plans to announce the U.S. will refer to the Persian Gulf as the 'Arabian Gulf,' aligning with Arab states' preferences, a move criticized by Iran. The visit excludes Israel, reportedly at Saudi Arabia's request, and aims to strengthen U.S. ties with Gulf allies while signaling a strategic pivot towards the Indo-Pacific.
44Netanyahu Ends Ceasefire, Intensifying Israeli Divisions Over Gaza Captives Amid Ongoing War
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ended a ceasefire in March 2025, intensifying divisions in Israel over the fate of 59 Israeli captives in Gaza. The decision, criticized for reducing chances of their release, has led to protests, military dissent, and political infighting. The war, now in its 19th month, faces scrutiny over its continuation and Netanyahu's motives. Military morale is low, with reservists refusing duty. Public protests highlight the war's human toll and the government's perceived neglect of hostages. Netanyahu's coalition faces pressure, and international criticism mounts over Israel's military actions in Gaza.
44Federal Judge Blocks Trump Administration's Workforce Cuts: Legal Battle Over Constitutional Authority
U.S. District Judge Susan Illston issued a temporary restraining order on May 9, 2025, halting the Trump administration's efforts to downsize the federal workforce. The order pauses a February executive order that led to job losses across over 20 federal agencies. The decision follows a lawsuit by labor unions, nonprofit organizations, and cities like San Francisco, arguing the administration bypassed Congress and disrupted services. The restraining order affects departments including Agriculture, Energy, and Veterans Affairs, and blocks further directives from the Department of Government Efficiency and the Office of Personnel Management.
40Trump Proposes 100% Tariffs on Foreign Films, UK Productions at Risk; White House Clarifies No Final Decision
Former President Donald Trump proposed a 100% tariff on foreign-made films via Truth Social on May 4, aiming to boost U.S. film production and counter foreign incentives. The White House clarified no final decision has been made. The proposal has caused concern in Hollywood and international hubs like the UK, which benefits from U.S. productions due to tax incentives. Industry leaders are uncertain about implementation and potential impacts on international co-productions. Legal experts question the feasibility of such tariffs, and there are fears of retaliatory measures from other countries.
78Pakistan Initiates 'Bunyan Ul Marsoos' Military Operation Against India Following Indian Airbase Strikes
Pakistan launched Operation 'Bunyan Ul Marsoos' against India in retaliation for Indian missile strikes on its airbases, marking the most serious military confrontation in nearly three decades. The operation targeted over 25 Indian military sites, including Pathankot and Udhampur. Both countries reported casualties and damage, with India accusing Pakistan of targeting civilian infrastructure, a claim Pakistan denies. The conflict follows a deadly attack in Kashmir. International actors, including the G7, have called for de-escalation and dialogue. Both nations have increased troop mobilization and remain on high alert.
58U.S. Ends $800 Tax-Free Import Rule from China and Hong Kong, Disrupting Online Shopping and Retail Supply Chains
President Donald Trump has ended the de minimis exemption for tax-free imports under $800 from China and Hong Kong, effective May 2, 2025. This policy change, part of a broader tariff escalation, imposes tariffs up to 145% on Chinese goods, affecting U.S. consumers and e-commerce retailers. The exemption's removal disrupts online shopping and pressures retailers to adjust supply chains. Critics argue the system was abused, citing counterfeit goods and safety issues. The policy aims to curb Chinese trade practices and boost domestic manufacturing, but has led to increased consumer prices and business uncertainty.
40Pentagon Considers Transferring Greenland to U.S. Northern Command Amid Trump's Renewed Interest
The Pentagon is considering transferring Greenland's military oversight from U.S. European Command (EUCOM) to U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM), reflecting the Trump administration's focus on the Arctic. Discussions, some predating Trump's 2025 return to office, have intensified due to his interest in acquiring Greenland and tensions with Denmark. The shift aligns with NORTHCOM's mission and Greenland's strategic location. Denmark has expressed concerns, especially after reports of increased U.S. intelligence activities in Greenland. The U.S. is also exploring a Compact of Free Association with Greenland, though it remains under Danish sovereignty.
53EU Investors Warn Against Cutting Key Sustainability Data in Regulatory Review Amid US Trade Tensions
The European Commission's review of sustainability disclosure regulations has prompted concerns from investor groups, including the European Fund and Asset Management Association (EFAMA), about proposed reductions in mandatory data reporting. EFAMA warns that cutting key sustainability data could hinder investors' ability to assess risks and support EU climate goals. The review aims to ease regulatory burdens amid EU-U.S. trade tensions. EFAMA suggests a streamlined data list to reduce reporting by 80% without compromising quality. The Commission's consultation on these changes is open until May 30, 2025, with draft revisions expected later in the year.
51Pakistan Accuses India of Missile Launch into Indian Territory, Red Alert Issued in Amritsar Amid Rising Tensions
Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated after Pakistan's military claimed India launched six ballistic missiles from Adampur, landing in Indian territory, including Amritsar. Pakistan also reported Indian missiles targeted three air bases near Islamabad, including Nur Khan Air Base, but no casualties or damage were confirmed. The situation has led to red alerts and blackouts in Indian cities like Amritsar and Pathankot. The conflict follows a series of retaliatory strikes between the two nations, with international calls for restraint amid significant civilian casualties on both sides.
54Newly Elected American Pope Leo XIV Criticized by MAGA Supporters for Immigration Views
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, faces criticism from Trump supporters and the 'America First' movement for his past social media posts and positions critical of Trump-era immigration policies. Elected on May 8, 2025, his views align with Pope Francis on issues like immigration and social justice, causing tension with conservative American factions. Despite his U.S. roots, MAGA figures like Steve Bannon and Laura Loomer have labeled him anti-Trump. The backlash highlights a divide within American Catholicism, with differing views on immigration and global humanitarian issues.
50Federal Judge Orders Release of Tufts Student Rümeysa Öztürk from ICE, Citing First Amendment and Due Process Violations
A federal judge in Vermont ordered the release of Rümeysa Öztürk, a Turkish doctoral student at Tufts University, from ICE custody due to due process and First Amendment concerns. Öztürk was detained for over six weeks after her student visa was revoked following her co-authorship of an op-ed critical of Tufts' response to pro-Palestinian activism. The ACLU, representing her, praised the decision as a victory for free speech. Judge William K. Sessions III highlighted the lack of evidence for her detention and the potential chilling effect on free speech for non-citizens.
59Trump Announces UK Trade Deal, Proposes 80% Tariff on China, and Maintains 10% Global Tariff Policy
Former President Donald Trump announced a preliminary trade agreement with the UK, reducing tariffs on UK car imports and eliminating tariffs on UK steel, while maintaining a 10% tariff on most other UK goods. Trump also proposed lowering the 145% tariff on Chinese imports to 80% ahead of trade talks in Switzerland. Despite these changes, the White House confirmed Trump's commitment to a 10% baseline tariff on imports from all countries. The UK deal is part of a broader strategy, with over 20 additional trade agreements nearing resolution.
51Newark Mayor Ras Baraka Arrested for Alleged Trespass During ICE Facility Oversight Visit
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested on May 9, 2025, at the Delaney Hall ICE detention facility in Newark, New Jersey, during an oversight visit with Democratic Congress members. Federal officials allege Baraka trespassed and ignored warnings to leave. Conflicting accounts exist, with Baraka's supporters claiming he complied with requests to exit. The incident has drawn criticism from New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and immigrant advocacy groups, who view the arrest as an overreaction. Delaney Hall, operated by GEO Group, has faced legal challenges from Baraka's administration over permit issues.
45Survivors Urge Pope Leo XIV to Address Past Abuse Case Handling in Chicago and Peru
Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, faces calls from abuse survivors and advocacy groups to address his past handling of clergy abuse cases in Chicago and Peru. Critics highlight his alleged inaction regarding accused priests, including Father James Ray in Chicago and two priests in Peru. Despite criticism, Prevost is credited for supporting victims of the Sodalitium Christianae Vitae, a dissolved Catholic movement in Peru. Advocacy groups urge transparency and reform, emphasizing the need for Pope Leo XIV to build trust with victims and their families.
45GOP's $7 Million Ad Campaign Counters Medicaid Cut Claims Amid $880 Billion Federal Funding Reduction Plan
Republican lawmakers are advancing plans to cut $880 billion in federal healthcare spending, mainly targeting Medicaid, while launching a $7 million ad campaign through the American Action Network to counter claims of Medicaid cuts. The ads, running in 30 congressional districts, assert Republicans aim to preserve Medicaid by addressing waste and fraud. Despite GOP assurances, internal documents suggest Medicaid will face significant reductions. The campaign seeks to mitigate public backlash and internal GOP divisions over the proposed cuts, which could affect over 80 million low-income Americans reliant on Medicaid.
52Vietnam and U.S. Intensify Trade Negotiations Ahead of July 8 Tariff Deadline Imposed by Trump
Vietnam and the U.S. are in critical trade talks as a potential 46% tariff on Vietnamese imports, announced by former President Trump, looms with a July 8 deadline. Initial discussions began on April 23 between Vietnamese Trade Minister Nguyen Hong Dien and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. Vietnam seeks recognition as a market economy and relief from high-tech export restrictions. The proposed tariff has impacted Vietnam's manufacturing sector, prompting increased exports and lobbying for reduced tariffs. The U.S. is concerned about Vietnam's role in channeling Chinese goods, complicating the negotiations.
41Boeing Aims for 2027 Air Force One Delivery Amid $2 Billion Cost Overruns and Requirement Changes
Boeing may deliver the next-generation Air Force One by 2027, two years earlier than previously projected, if the U.S. Air Force relaxes certain requirements. This was discussed during a congressional hearing, highlighting the VC-25B program's issues with delays and cost overruns. The $3.9 billion contract is now $2 billion over budget. The revised timeline could allow President Trump to use the aircraft before his term ends in January 2029. The Air Force and Boeing are negotiating requirement changes to expedite delivery, including easing security clearance mandates for Boeing personnel.
50Japan's National Debt Reaches Record ¥1,323 Trillion Due to Rising Defense and Social Security Costs
Japan's national debt reached a record ¥1,323.7155 trillion by March 31, 2025, marking the ninth consecutive year of increase. The debt rose by ¥26.554 trillion from the previous year, driven by increased defense and social security spending, and government stimulus measures. The fiscal 2025 budget exceeded ¥115 trillion, with over ¥28 trillion in new bonds planned. Despite the debt, the government will not reduce the consumption tax, citing fiscal discipline. Japan's debt-to-GDP ratio is among the highest globally, raising concerns about fiscal sustainability amid demographic challenges and rising interest rates.
45UAE Rejects Amnesty Claims of Supplying Chinese Weapons to Sudan's Rapid Support Forces Amid Ongoing Conflict
The UAE has denied Amnesty International's claims that it supplied Chinese-made weapons to Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF), involved in conflict with the Sudanese military. Amnesty's report, released on May 8, 2025, alleges the RSF used Chinese GB50A bombs and AH-4 howitzers, supposedly re-exported by the UAE, in attacks in Khartoum and Darfur. UAE officials dismissed the report as 'baseless,' stating the weapons are not exclusive to the UAE. Sudan has severed diplomatic ties with the UAE over these allegations, while Amnesty calls for stricter arms embargo enforcement.