Whistleblowers Reveal Massive Abuse and Trafficking of Migrant Children Under Biden-Era Policies; 85,000 Unaccounted For 

Whistleblowers and former officials have exposed a vast, underregulated system that enabled widespread abuse and trafficking of unaccompanied migrant children under President Biden’s immigration policies, which critics say were exploited by cartels and failed contractors. Between 2019 and 2023, over 448,000 children were encountered at the border and transferred into the U.S., often with little oversight. Smugglers provided false sponsor information, resulting in children being sent to addresses like storage units or strip clubs, sometimes returning them to trafficking networks. A 2024 Homeland Security bust revealed sedated toddlers smuggled using fake documents, and widespread child labor was later uncovered in farms, factories, and slaughterhouses. The Department of Health and Human Services estimates 85,000 migrant children are unaccounted for, while DHS Inspector General data suggests tens of thousands more had incorrect sponsor information. Under President Trump’s renewed border enforcement, stricter sponsor verification measures, including ID, income proof, and DNA tests, were implemented. The administration also canceled Southwest Key’s $3 billion federal contract after DOJ allegations of rampant sexual abuse in its shelters, leading to 5,000 furloughs and termination of the lawsuit. 

Tom Homan: Thousands of Migrant Children Rescued from Trafficking Under Biden’s Failed Border Policies 

Former ICE director and border czar Tom Homan revealed that thousands of missing migrant children smuggled into the U.S. under President Biden have been rescued from sex trafficking, forced labor, and other dire conditions, including a recently discovered pregnant 14-year-old living with adult men. On Miranda Devine’s “Pod Force One” podcast, Homan condemned the Biden administration’s lax vetting and enforcement policies, which contributed to over 500,000 unaccompanied minors entering the U.S., many placed with unverified or dangerous sponsors. A DHS Inspector General report highlighted widespread failures, including missing addresses, minors placed with unrelated adults, and children housed in crime-ridden or unsafe areas. Some were even released to “spouses,” one of whom was 40 years old. Homan said DNA testing, which revealed 30% of alleged families were unrelated, was abandoned under Biden, enabling child trafficking and smuggling operations where kids were “rented” to cross the border. He accused the administration of prioritizing political optics over child safety and vowed that under Trump’s leadership, ICE would continue recovering every missing child and dismantling trafficking networks. 

Detainers for Illegal Aliens in NYC Sees 400% Increase Under Trump’s DHS 

Under President Donald Trump, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has sharply increased Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainer requests for criminal illegal aliens in New York City, issuing 6,025 since January 20—over a 400% rise compared to the total under President Biden’s four-year term. Detainers ask local authorities to hold illegal immigrants for ICE, but New York City, a sanctuary city, has reportedly honored only a small number. DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin criticized Mayor Eric Adams and other officials for releasing individuals accused or convicted of serious crimes like rape and murder, saying such policies endanger public safety. DHS cited cases including two illegal immigrants accused of attempting to murder a Customs and Border Protection officer after being shielded by sanctuary policies. RJ Hauman, president of the National Immigration Center for Enforcement (NICE), testified that approximately 25,000 criminal aliens were protected from federal enforcement between October 2022 and February 2025 due to sanctuary laws. He urged Congress to “end sanctuary cities for good” and begin mass deportations in alignment with Trump administration priorities. 

ICE Targets Child Sex Abusers, Drug Traffickers, and Rapist in Latest Arrests 

ICE continues to target and arrest what DHS officials call the “worst of the worst” illegal aliens across the U.S., with recent operations capturing individuals convicted of child sexual abuse, rape, drug trafficking, assault, and other violent crimes. The arrests, shared exclusively with Breitbart News, took place in sanctuary states like California and New Jersey, as well as in North Carolina, Texas, Alabama, and Georgia. DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin praised ICE agents for working “around the clock” to remove dangerous individuals from American communities, including pedophiles and traffickers, stating that “deportation planes” are being mobilized to ensure these criminals are expelled. Since President Trump took office in late January 2025, more than 300,000 illegal aliens have been arrested under stepped-up enforcement efforts. DHS reports that approximately 70% of those apprehended either have criminal convictions or pending charges. The renewed immigration enforcement campaign emphasizes public safety and border security, with officials stressing the importance of protecting communities—especially children—from repeat offenders and high-risk individuals unlawfully residing in the country. 

U.S. Builds Massive 5,000-Person Immigration Detention Camp in El Paso to Expand Deportation Infrastructure 

The U.S. government is constructing a massive 5,000-person immigration detention camp in El Paso, Texas, significantly expanding the Trump administration’s deportation infrastructure amid ongoing mass removal efforts. A $232 million Defense Department contract was awarded to Virginia-based Acquisition Logistics to build the “soft-sided facility,” a term typically referring to large-scale tent camps, intended to house single adult immigrants. This development follows the recent rapid construction of another detention site, nicknamed “Alligator Alcatraz,” in the remote Florida Everglades. The El Paso facility will be located near Fort Bliss, a sprawling Army base across Texas and New Mexico. The project is part of President Donald Trump’s aggressive immigration enforcement agenda, backed by a newly signed law allocating $170 billion to border security and immigration operations, including $45 billion for detention efforts. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will see its funding rise to $76.5 billion over five years—nearly 10 times its current annual budget. Despite a sharp decline in illegal border crossings, Trump has vowed to deport millions of undocumented immigrants residing in the United States. 

Global Military Expenditures Trend Upward in 2024 

Global military expenditure reached a record $2,718 billion in 2024, marking a decade of continuous growth with a 37% increase since 2015 and the sharpest annual rise—9.4%—since at least 1988, according to the SIPRI Military Expenditure Database. The global military burden, or military spending as a share of GDP, rose to 2.5%, while the average share of government expenditure devoted to defense climbed to 7.1%. Per capita military spending hit $334—the highest since 1990. For the second consecutive year, all five world regions saw increases, reflecting escalating geopolitical tensions. Key drivers include the Russia–Ukraine war, the Gaza conflict, and broader unrest in the Middle East. Europe's sustained buildup and intensified commitments from various countries suggest continued growth in the years ahead. The SIPRI Fact Sheet underscores that global military trends are now deeply shaped by persistent regional instability and policy shifts prioritizing defense. The new data set replaces all previously published SIPRI figures, offering the most current and comprehensive overview of military spending patterns from 2015 to 2024. 

Trump Defends U.S. Strikes on Iranian Nuclear Sites, Warns Tehran of More “If Necessary” 

US President Donald Trump defended last month’s American strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities, warning Tehran that Washington would strike again “if necessary.” Trump reacted on Truth Social to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s admission that the sites were “seriously damaged,” calling on CNN to fire a reporter and accusing the network of downplaying the success of US pilots who “OBLITERATED” the targets. CNN cited early intelligence suggesting the strikes set back Iran’s nuclear program only by months, not destroying it entirely. Araghchi told Fox News the damage was under evaluation but emphasized Iran’s refusal to abandon uranium enrichment, calling it a “national pride” and a scientific achievement. The remarks precede renewed nuclear talks between Iran and the UK, France, and Germany scheduled in Istanbul, following a 12-day war triggered by Israel’s surprise attack on Iran on June 13. The US joined the conflict on June 22, conducting strikes on nuclear sites shortly after Israel, complicating ongoing negotiations mediated by Oman. 

F-35A Stealth Fighters Operate from Philippines for First Time in Major U.S.-Led Exercise

For the first time, U.S. Air Force F-35A stealth fighters operated from the Philippines during the Cope Thunder exercise, held July 7–18, 2025, marking a major milestone in U.S.-Philippine military cooperation. Deployed from Hill Air Force Base, Utah, the F-35s flew alongside Philippine FA-50s, A-29 light attack aircraft, and helicopters, operating primarily from Basa Air Base in northern Luzon—strategically located near Taiwan. The exercise emphasized joint training in air operations, maintenance, refueling, and airfield logistics. While the U.S. had never deployed fifth-generation fighters to the Philippines until 2023—when F-22s and later F-35Bs arrived at Clark Air Base—this marked the first deployment of F-35As to the country. The development underscores growing U.S.-Philippine defense ties as both nations counter China’s assertive actions in the South China Sea. According to The Washington Post, the Philippines is also quietly strengthening relations with Taiwan, a shift from its earlier stance. Cope Thunder is one of several high-profile U.S. military exercises this summer, including Talon Shield, Talisman Sabre, Red Flag-Alaska, Mobility Guardian, and Resolute Force Pacific. 

Pentagon Orders Marine Withdrawal from Los Angeles

The Pentagon has ordered the withdrawal of 700 U.S. Marines from Los Angeles, ending their deployment more than a month after President Trump sent them to the city amid protests over his immigration crackdown. Initially deployed on June 9 alongside 4,000 National Guard troops, the Marines had been stationed near federal buildings, including an ICE detention facility. Their limited actions included the temporary detainment of a man near a VA appointment. The move follows the partial drawdown of National Guard forces last week, though many still remain. Mayor Karen Bass, joined by veterans’ leaders, welcomed the Marine withdrawal, calling it a victory for both the city and service members, and renewed calls for all troops to leave. California Governor Gavin Newsom, who sued the federal government over the National Guard deployment, argued Trump violated legal procedures and decried the use of troops in what he labeled a political stunt orchestrated by Trump and adviser Stephen Miller. Although a lower court sided with Newsom, the 9th Circuit has temporarily blocked that ruling, leaving the Guard’s status unresolved. 

Russian Bombers and Fighter Jets Enter Alaskan Air Defense Zone, NORAD Sends Up Fighters to Intercept 

On July 22, Russian military aircraft—including two Tu-95 bombers and two Su-35 fighters—entered the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ), prompting a NORAD response that lasted over three hours. Ten U.S. and Canadian aircraft, including F-35s, F-16s, an E-3 Sentry, and three KC-135 tankers, were scrambled to intercept and escort the Russian planes, which operated in international airspace and never breached U.S. or Canadian sovereign territory. NORAD confirmed the activity was not viewed as a threat, noting such Russian flights occur regularly and have resumed since 2007. Although a previous Su-35 interception in 2023 was deemed unsafe, no unusual behavior was reported this time. Russia stated the mission, a 15-hour round trip over the Bering Sea, occurred shortly after Ukrainian drones damaged multiple Tu-95s at Russian airfields. The incident also comes amid renewed U.S. support for Ukraine, including replenishing NATO weapons stockpiles. NORAD emphasized its layered defense network remains ready to act in defense of North America, mirroring U.S. flights in foreign ADIZs like those near disputed areas in the South China Sea.

US Navy Nuclear Submarine Deployed to Pacific Fleet to Counter China Threat 

The U.S. Navy has redeployed the nuclear-powered fast-attack submarine USS Indiana from Groton, Connecticut, to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, marking the second such move this month to strengthen America's Indo-Pacific posture amid China's growing naval and missile capabilities. Commissioned in 2018, the Indiana is the 16th Virginia-class submarine and features two large payload tubes capable of launching Tomahawk cruise missiles with 1,000-mile range. It now joins Submarine Squadron 7, which supports seven fast-attack submarines—three Virginia-class and four Los Angeles-class. This follows the July 12 arrival of the USS Toledo, another Connecticut-based submarine. The redeployments reflect a broader U.S. effort to counter China’s military buildup and missile threats against U.S. bases and allies like Japan, which is simultaneously boosting its defenses. The Pentagon has also increased its presence in the Western Pacific with stealth-capable aircraft carriers and long-range missile systems. Rear Admiral Chris Cavanaugh welcomed Indiana’s arrival, calling it a boost to the Pacific Submarine Force, while Commander Kyle Johnson emphasized its readiness for future missions. Additional deployments to Hawaii, Guam, or Japan remain under consideration.

US Nukes to be Stored in Container Vaults Being Built on Remote Bases 

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Sandia National Laboratories is developing a high-security Mobile Vault concealed within a standard 20-foot shipping container to securely store nuclear weapons or other sensitive assets at remote or temporary locations. The prototype was designed rapidly, integrating advanced mechanical, electrical, and security features including dual combination locks and sophisticated access controls. The vault aims to support evolving military strategies like the Air Force’s Agile Combat Employment, enabling dispersed and flexible deployment of nuclear assets such as the B61-series bombs, which are already forward-deployed in Europe. Unlike permanent bunkers, these containerized vaults offer mobility and logistical ease but less protection, necessitating new operational doctrines. The project exemplifies efforts to safeguard critical materials outside traditional bases, complicating adversaries’ targeting. Sandia plans to showcase the Mobile Vault at the upcoming Gray Flag 2025 exercise, potentially featuring nuclear or sensitive conventional munitions. The initiative highlights a shift toward blending mobility, security, and rapid deployment in U.S. nuclear and sensitive asset strategy, with industry transition planned for broader production and use.

Challenge Coin Hints at Return of U.S. Nuclear Bombs to England After 15-Year Absence 

A newly revealed U.S. Air Force challenge coin strongly suggests that American B61 nuclear bombs have returned to RAF Lakenheath in the United Kingdom after their removal in 2008. The coin, belonging to the 493rd Fighter Generation Squadron (FGS), depicts a nuclear explosion and the distinctive B61 bomb shape, reinforcing mounting evidence that the base’s nuclear mission has been reactivated. While the Pentagon maintains its policy of neither confirming nor denying nuclear deployments, multiple indicators—including satellite imagery of upgraded aircraft shelters, Pentagon documents referencing nuclear infrastructure and training, and recent C-17A flights from Kirtland Air Force Base—point to the bombs’ arrival. Lakenheath’s F-35A and F-15E squadrons are capable of deploying the B61-12, bolstering NATO’s strategic deterrence amid tensions with Russia. Though it’s unclear if the bombs will be permanently stationed or serve as a flexible backup, their presence significantly strengthens the U.S. nuclear posture in Europe. This development also counters fears among NATO allies of a reduced U.S. nuclear commitment, while potentially influencing future U.K. F-35A procurement and nuclear-sharing dynamics. 

Iran Vows to Continue Nuclear Program Despite U.S. Strikes Ahead of Talks in Turkey 

Iran will not abandon its nuclear program or uranium enrichment efforts despite “severe” damage from recent U.S. airstrikes on its nuclear facilities, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said ahead of a key meeting with Britain, France, and Germany in Istanbul this Friday. While enrichment is temporarily halted due to the extent of the damage, Araghchi emphasized it remains a matter of national pride and scientific achievement. The talks will be the first since Iran’s 12-day war with Israel, during which the U.S. struck nuclear sites in Fordo, Isfahan, and Natanz. Tehran blames European powers for undermining the 2015 nuclear deal, which collapsed after the U.S. withdrew in 2018 under President Trump and reimposed sanctions. With the deal set to expire in October, European nations have warned of reactivating UN sanctions via a “snapback” clause if no resolution is found. Iran, meanwhile, is enriching uranium to 60%, far above the 3.67% cap, prompting concerns from the IAEA. Iran rejects any talks with the U.S. for now and plans a separate meeting with China and Russia, seeking to preserve its nuclear capabilities amid rising geopolitical tension.

US Destroyer Confronted by Iran in Gulf of Oman 

Iran to Get Latest Russian S-400 and Chinese HQ Air Defense Systems 

Iran has reportedly deployed advanced Russian S-400 and Chinese HQ-series surface-to-air missile systems, marking a significant expansion of its air defense capabilities amid rising regional tensions. According to the Russian Arms Telegram channel, at least one S-400 battery—complete with surveillance and engagement radars, command systems, and 48N6DM, 48N6E3, and possibly 40N6 missiles—has been stationed near Isfahan and may have been used against Israeli UAVs. Concurrently, Chinese military aircraft reportedly delivered HQ-9P and HQ-22 systems to Tehran, designed to intercept cruise and aeroballistic missiles such as the U.S. Tomahawk and Israel’s ROCKS and Rampage. These systems, supported by HT-233 and 92N6 radars, have been strategically deployed for optimal coverage. This marks the first known operational use of the S-400 by Iran. While Iran previously emphasized domestic systems like the Bavar-373, the recent deployment—following arms transfers and joint exercises with Russia and China since 2022—highlights growing military ties. The move comes just after Donald Trump warned of potential U.S. strikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, adding urgency to Iran’s air defense enhancements. 

Iran Warns of Stronger Retaliation to U.S. and Israeli Strikes Amid Nuclear Tensions

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned Monday that Tehran would respond more decisively to any future attacks by the U.S. or Israel, following recent American strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and Israeli bombing campaigns aimed at halting Iran’s atomic progress. His comments came after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to "wipe out" Iran’s nuclear program if it resumed atomic activities, stating during a visit to Scotland that prior U.S. strikes had already done so. Araghchi dismissed the effectiveness of military threats, asserting on social media that another act of aggression would provoke a response “impossible to cover up.” He reiterated Iran’s openness to negotiated solutions but rejected abandoning its uranium enrichment rights, calling it a “non-negotiable” national interest. Ongoing tensions have derailed U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations that began in April. During the 12-day war, Iran retaliated with missile strikes on Israeli cities and a U.S. base in Qatar. Despite enriching uranium to 60%—just short of weapons-grade levels—Iran maintains it seeks peaceful technology. Araghchi framed Iran’s program as a hard-won achievement, not something to surrender under pressure.

American support for Israel’s military actions in Gaza has hit its lowest point since polling began in late 2023, according to a Gallup survey conducted from July 7 to 21, 2025. Only 32% of Americans approve of Israel’s conduct in Gaza, while 60% disapprove—a 10-point drop since September 2024. The decline is especially sharp among Democrats and independents, with Democratic approval falling to 8% (down 16 points) and independent support also dropping 16 points to 25%. Conversely, Republican backing rose to 71%, up five points. The survey also measured attitudes toward Israeli strikes on Iran, finding 38% support and 54% opposition, again sharply divided along party lines. Additionally, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s favorability in the U.S. has plummeted, with 52% viewing him unfavorably—the first time a majority have held a negative opinion since Gallup began tracking in 1997. Only 29% see him favorably, including just 9% of Democrats, 19% of independents, and 67% of Republicans. The 58-point partisan gap in Netanyahu’s image is the widest Gallup has ever recorded.     

Ukraine Launches Drone Defense Recruitment as Russian Shahed Attacks Surge 

Ukraine’s Azov First Corps of the National Guard has launched a recruitment drive to expand its drone defense capabilities in response to Russia’s escalating Shahed drone attacks, which have recently reached record levels. On July 9 alone, Russia launched 728 Shaheds and other munitions, with hundreds more fired days later. These drones now fly at varied altitudes, making them harder to detect and overwhelm Ukraine’s limited air defenses, with recent data showing a threefold increase in drone hit rates. In response, Ukraine is turning to cost-effective FPV interceptor drones capable of speeds over 200 km/h and altitudes up to 6 km, equipped with terminal guidance systems and explosive warheads. Azov aims to integrate these drones with traditional air defenses in mobile, adaptive units focused on critical infrastructure and high-risk areas. Meanwhile, Ukraine is also training local volunteers to shoot down drones. As Russia boosts Shahed production to 2,000 per month, possibly with AI enhancements, Ukraine urgently seeks scalable defenses amid a dwindling supply of costly missile interceptors like Patriots and NASAMS. 

Massive Ukrainian Drone Barrage Shuts Down Moscow Airports 

Russia faced an unprecedented wave of Ukrainian drone attacks over the weekend, prompting repeated closures of Moscow's major airports and highlighting escalating aerial and intelligence warfare. Between July 19 and 20, Russia’s Defense Ministry reported shooting down at least 272 Ukrainian fixed-wing drones across more than a dozen regions, with Bryansk hit hardest (108 drones), followed by Kaluga (55), and the Moscow region (46), including drones headed for the capital. The heaviest barrage occurred overnight, with 93 drones intercepted, 16 en route to Moscow. The strikes forced Sheremetyevo and three other Moscow airports to shut and reopen roughly ten times in 24 hours, leading to 140 flight cancellations and stranding over 60,000 passengers; Kaluga’s airport remained closed for 14 hours. Meanwhile, Russia claimed military gains across Ukraine, capturing Belaya Gora in Donetsk and attacking 148 locations with artillery, drones, and airstrikes. Moscow alleged over 1,200 Ukrainian casualties and the destruction of U.S.-supplied equipment. The drone offensive coincides with heightened covert operations, as both nations report arrests, assassinations, and foiled sabotage attempts amid the ongoing conflict. 

Thousands Protest Zelensky Signing of Anti-Corruption Bill Placing Anti-Corruption Agency Under HIs Control 

Thousands of Ukrainians protested in Kyiv on Tuesday against President Volodymyr Zelensky’s signing of Bill No. 12414, which critics say dismantles Ukraine’s independent anti-corruption infrastructure by placing the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) under presidential control via the Prosecutor General’s Office. The protest, the first since Russia’s 2022 invasion, drew several thousand young demonstrators despite martial law banning public gatherings. Protesters, including war veteran Oleh Symoroz, accused Zelensky of shielding allies and undermining democracy. Zelensky defended the law by alleging Russian infiltration within NABU and SAPO, claiming the agencies had stalled high-profile corruption cases. NABU warned the move would gut its independence, while the European Commission voiced strong concerns, cautioning that Ukraine’s EU membership prospects could be jeopardized. Tensions escalated as the SBU raided NABU the day before, accusing two officials of being Russian agents. Protesters carried signs accusing Zelensky of reverting to pro-Russian authoritarianism, and EU leaders warned that anti-corruption reforms are non-negotiable for Ukraine’s European aspirations. Zelensky acknowledged the backlash but showed no signs of reversing course

Pacific and Artic Oceans as well as Baltic Sea Sees Major Russian Naval Drills 

Russia launched its major naval exercise, “July Storm,” on Wednesday, involving over 150 vessels and 15,000 personnel across the Pacific and Arctic oceans, as well as the Baltic and Caspian seas. Running from July 23 to July 27, the drills aim to test fleet readiness for unconventional operations and the deployment of long-range weapons and advanced technologies, including unmanned systems. The Defense Ministry stated that ship crews will practice deploying to combat zones, conducting anti-submarine warfare, defending strategic and economic areas, and countering air attacks, unmanned boats, and enemy drones. Additionally, the exercise will focus on navigation safety, striking enemy targets, and coordinated naval group actions. More than 120 aircraft and 10 coastal missile systems are also participating, under the leadership of Navy Chief Admiral Alexander Moiseev. Despite Russia having the world’s third most powerful navy after China and the United States, it has experienced significant losses during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The “July Storm” drills underscore Moscow’s efforts to maintain and modernize its maritime military capabilities amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.   

Thailand and Cambodia Conflict Intensifies with Deadly Attacks from both Sides 

Thailand launched airstrikes on Cambodian military positions on Thursday after Cambodia fired rockets and artillery into Thai territory, killing at least 11 civilians—mostly students—near a petrol station in Sisaket province. The deadly clash marks a sharp escalation in the long-standing Emerald Triangle border dispute, where Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos meet amid contested temple sites. The fighting began after a Cambodian drone was spotted over Ta Muen temple, followed by Cambodian troops allegedly firing on Thai forces. Thailand responded by scrambling six F-16s from Ubon Ratchathani, accusing Cambodia of a targeted attack on civilians. Cambodia claimed it acted in self-defense, accusing Thailand of initiating an unprovoked assault, and called for an urgent UN Security Council meeting. Both nations expelled each other’s diplomats, shut border crossings, and accused one another of aggression. The conflict has triggered evacuations and diplomatic fallout, with China expressing concern and Malaysia urging dialogue. The violence comes amid rising domestic tension in Thailand, where Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been suspended over an ethics probe linked to leaked communications with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen. 

Trump Brokers Peace Deal Between Rwanda and Congo 

On July 18, 2025, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo signed a U.S.-brokered peace agreement in Washington, aiming to end a deadly conflict that has killed thousands and displaced hundreds of thousands this year. The deal, signed by both nations' foreign ministers in the presence of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, pledges Rwandan troop withdrawal from eastern Congo within 90 days, joint security coordination, and economic integration to attract U.S. investment in the region’s vast mineral wealth. President Donald Trump, instrumental in securing the accord, touted the agreement as a major diplomatic win and warned of severe penalties if either side violates the terms. The deal supports parallel peace talks in Doha and includes measures to de-risk and jointly manage critical mineral supply chains, with promises of future agreements involving both nations' presidents. However, skepticism remains due to past failed efforts and ongoing tensions, including Rwanda’s alleged support for M23 rebels. Analysts note U.S. involvement will be key to enforcement, with economic incentives seen as both a motivator and test for lasting peace. 

Netanyahu’s Washington Visit Earns Trump Nobel Nomination but Fails to Secure Gaza Ceasefire 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington this week brought President Donald Trump another Nobel Peace Prize nomination, but failed to produce the 60-day Gaza ceasefire Trump sought. Despite Trump’s strong push to end the 21-month Israel-Hamas war—framing it as a test of his dealmaking prowess—no major breakthrough occurred, highlighting the limits of his influence over Netanyahu. Their joint strikes on Iranian nuclear sites showcased military cooperation, but little public progress emerged toward a truce. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the U.S. is “closer than we’ve been” to a ceasefire, but acknowledged ongoing challenges. Ending the war would not only halt the bloodshed but also enable Trump to pursue broader Middle East goals, including expanding the Abraham Accords and normalizing ties with Syria. Trump, keen to be seen as the one who frees hostages and ends the conflict, faces Hamas demands for an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza—an ultimatum Israel refuses. Netanyahu has vowed to continue military operations until Hamas is dismantled, complicating Trump’s ambitions for peace and diplomatic gains.

Trump threatens Putin with Tariffs hoping to Force Peace Agreement 

President Donald Trump on Monday threatened “very severe tariffs” on Russia if no peace agreement is reached to end the Ukraine war within 50 days, escalating pressure on President Vladimir Putin amid stalled diplomacy. Despite repeated claims during his campaign that he would end the war within 24 hours of taking office, Trump has yet to secure a ceasefire after multiple calls with Putin and indirect talks in Istanbul between Russian and Ukrainian delegations, which only yielded prisoner exchanges. At a meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, Trump voiced disappointment with Putin and announced a new U.S. weapons package for Ukraine, including Patriot air defense systems. He emphasized that NATO would fund the shipments, noting that 17 Patriot batteries intended for another country may be redirected to Ukraine. Trump’s latest remarks aim to shift Putin’s stance, but it remains unclear whether his tariff threat or arms deliveries will alter Russia’s approach. The developments underscore the challenges Trump faces in fulfilling his pledge to quickly end the war while balancing military support and diplomatic pressure.