Bessent: Democratic Congress Can’t Hinder Trump’s Agenda
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated on Tuesday that a Democrat-led House of Representatives would struggle to impede the Trump administration’s plans. In an interview with 2Way TV, Bessent remarked, “I think there’s very little” that Congress could do to stop Trump’s initiatives, particularly with the midterm elections approaching next month.
Mother and Daughter Killed in Russian Drone Strike
Inna Mariukhna, a 28-year-old primary school teacher, and her 14-month-old daughter, Angelina, were killed in a drone strike on a park in Nova Vodolaha, Kharkiv region. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack, describing it as a “pure atrocity.” He noted, “A Shahed struck people directly – in a park near an ordinary café. Six people were killed, including children.”
Zelensky and Witkoff Discuss ‘Elements of Peace’
Finnish Prime Minister Alexander Stubb indicated fruitful discussions between himself, Volodymyr Zelensky, and Steve Witkoff, stating they found “some elements of peace.” Witkoff is scheduled to meet with Russian leaders in St Petersburg after being invited by Zelensky. The Ukrainian leader also expressed hope to speak with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio within 48 hours, noting improvements in missile strike intelligence.
Ukraine Conducts First Drone Evacuation of Wounded Soldier
Ukraine made headlines by performing its first-ever evacuation of a wounded soldier using a drone. Footage released by Ukraine’s 92nd Assault Brigade showed the operation, which took place in a heavily militarised area. An infantryman from the 30th Separate Mechanised Brigade had been injured, making traditional evacuation methods unfeasible.
Trump and Zelensky’s Fractured Relationship Deepens
Relations between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky have deteriorated following Trump’s decision to lift sanctions against Russia and a controversial purchase of Russian diesel. This latest strain followed months of diplomatic efforts by Zelensky to maintain US support for Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression. With winter approaching, there are concerns over the US’s commitment to providing crucial military support.
Jon Stewart Criticises Trump’s Russian Deal
Jon Stewart branded President Trump’s Russian diesel deal “insane” and “incoherent,” accusing the administration of contradicting its own sanctions. On Monday’s edition of the Daily Show, Stewart highlighted Energy Secretary Chris Wright’s comments defending the deal, questioning the logic behind easing sanctions on a nation already sanctioned for diesel exports.
EU Must Adapt to Russian Military Build-up in Arctic
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urged the EU to adjust its strategic approach in the Arctic due to Russia’s military resurgence in the region. Presenting a new strategy, she stated, “The Arctic is where the tectonic plates of geopolitics are colliding,” emphasizing that it is a critical area for Europe, and cannot be disregarded.
