Trump Puts ‘Pause’ on Military Aid to Ukraine 

President Donald Trump ordered a temporary pause on $1 billion in military aid to Ukraine, citing the need to ensure U.S. assistance aligns with peace efforts. The move follows a tense Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who refused to sign a minerals-for-aid deal and demanded U.S. security guarantees in any peace agreement. Vice President JD Vance called Zelensky "disrespectful" for negotiating publicly, while Trump later remarked, "This is going to be great television." Despite Trump’s decision, Zelensky secured a $2.8 billion loan from Britain for weapons production and attended a European summit in London, emphasizing Europe's unity and ongoing discussions about security guarantees. Trump criticized Zelensky’s statement that peace remains "very, very far away," accusing him of resisting negotiations as long as U.S. support continues. White House officials say the aid freeze is meant to pressure Ukraine into resuming talks, with the Trump administration reportedly seeking a public apology from Zelensky before reconsidering the minerals deal and future military assistance.

High Costs Put a Hold on US Military Deportation Flights 

On March 5, 2025, the U.S. government paused the use of military aircraft for deporting migrants due to high costs and logistical challenges. These military flights, including C-17 and C-130 planes, had been used to deport individuals to various countries, but their $3 million per flight cost and operational issues proved unsustainable. In contrast, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) charter flights cost significantly less, about $8,500 per hour compared to $28,500 per hour for military aircraft. Additionally, diplomatic tensions arose, particularly with Colombia, which blocked U.S. military flights in January 2025, highlighting the strain such operations placed on international relations. The logistical complications, including bypassing Mexican airspace due to restrictions, further increased the operational inefficiencies of military flights. The suspension reflects a shift towards more cost-effective deportation methods, with the possibility of resuming military flights in the future. This decision underscores the challenges of balancing efficient immigration enforcement with fiscal responsibility and diplomatic considerations. 

Illegals Removed from GITMO to Louisiana to Await Deportation 

All remaining migrants at Guantanamo Bay have been relocated to Louisiana over the past two days, following an announcement by President Donald Trump in late January to prepare a 30,000-person migrant facility at the base. However, only a few hundred migrants were held there, and the base's infrastructure, including tents not meeting ICE standards, proved inadequate for housing migrants. Despite Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's suggestion that Guantanamo Bay could be used for "hardened criminals" being deported, the facility did not align with the requirements for migrant detention, such as air conditioning and proper amenities. By Friday, 41 migrants were transferred to Alexandria, Louisiana, for processing, with some U.S. troops sent to the base likely being reassigned to the southern border. Critics, including Rep. Sara Jacobs, D-CA, argued that the use of Guantanamo Bay was more about optics than operational value, noting that the $16 million spent on preparing the camp, including $3.1 million per tent, did not fulfill DHS's needs and was criticized as a waste. 

US Deploys Air Force Intel Analysts to Support Border Mission 

The U.S. military is deploying 40 additional Air Force intelligence analysts to enhance surveillance of the southern border, bringing the total troop presence for border operations to 9,600, including 590 Army engineers. U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM) oversees these efforts through the Joint Intelligence Task Force-Southern Border, which collaborates with Customs and Border Protection. Intelligence support includes full-motion video analysis, counter-network analysis, and Spanish translation. The Air Force and Navy have been conducting intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions since February using RC-135 Rivet Joint aircraft from Offutt AFB and P-8 Poseidons, one of which was recently relocated from Europe to Texas. Analysts will be stationed at intelligence hubs in Arizona, California, Texas, and Florida. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David W. Allvin emphasized the military’s commitment to border security, aligning with the administration’s priority to restore sovereignty. In addition to ISR operations, Air Force C-17s and C-130s have been used to deport detainees. Other airborne assets are also providing intelligence, which is analyzed and coordinated across agencies.

Tariff War Kicks Off as China and Canada Issue Retaliatory Tariffs Against US 

Global markets are experiencing a downturn as concerns about an escalating trade war continue to affect sentiment. President Trump’s announcement on Monday that tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China would increase intensified the situation. On Tuesday, Trump’s 25% tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada went into effect, prompting Canada to retaliate with similar tariffs on $100 billion worth of U.S. imports. Mexico is expected to follow suit. Additionally, a 10% tariff on Chinese imports was imposed, raising the total to 20%. In response, China introduced tariffs of 10% to 15% on U.S. agricultural goods, including chicken, wheat, soybeans, and pork, and imposed an export ban on some U.S. defense firms. Although China’s retaliation was targeted, with no broad-based tariffs on tech or autos, analysts suggest this indicates room for negotiation. Despite market losses globally, some strategists believe China’s measured response may signal its patience in negotiations. The uncertainty surrounding these developments is contributing to concerns about future economic growth. 

French Defense Minister Says France Readying 200MN Euro Military Aid Package for Ukraine 

France is preparing a new military aid package for Ukraine worth 195 million euros ($211 million) from the interest earned on frozen Russian assets, as announced by Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu. The package will fund the delivery of 155-millimeter shells and AASM air-to-surface weapons for French Mirage 2000 fighter jets. Lecornu called the suspension of US weapons deliveries to Ukraine a “heavy blow” to Kyiv's defense efforts and stressed the importance of not allowing this to continue. He also warned of Russia's growing influence in targeting democracies and economies, referencing the potential manipulation of France's upcoming 2027 elections. While France has been cautious about using frozen Russian assets directly for Ukraine, Lecornu supported mobilizing funds from the interest generated. He also commented on the increasing need for European defense spending and highlighted ammunition, electronic warfare, and advancements in drone and artificial intelligence technologies as key priorities for France’s future military capabilities. He noted no immediate threat to NATO members but cited concerns about Moldova's stability. 

‘ReArm Europe’ Defense Plan Unveiled by European Union 

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has unveiled the €800 billion "ReArm Europe Plan" to bolster Europe's military capabilities and sustain aid for Ukraine amid uncertainty over U.S. support. Announced before a European Council meeting, the initiative promotes increased national defense spending, joint procurement, and accelerated military assistance. The plan permits EU states to expand defense budgets by €650 billion over four years under the Stability and Growth Pact’s escape clause, while a €150 billion loan program will fund defense infrastructure. Von der Leyen stressed that Europe must take greater responsibility for its security, calling for a “massive” increase in military aid to Ukraine, including missile defense systems and anti-drone technology. The proposal follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to pause military aid and Vice President J.D. Vance’s criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has backed stronger European defense ties, pledging to raise U.K. military spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027. EU leaders will debate the plan at Thursday’s Brussels summit. 

Poland Leases US Made Apache Longbow Attack Helicopters 

Poland has secured a $300-million lease agreement with the U.S. for eight Boeing AH-64D Apache Longbow attack helicopters, which will be assigned to the 1st Land Forces Aviation Brigade in Inowrocław. This contract includes training, spare parts, technical support, and logistics to ensure operational readiness. Deliveries of the AH-64Ds are expected between the second and third quarters of this year, with aircrew training already underway. The AH-64D lease serves as a temporary solution while Poland waits for the delivery of the more advanced AH-64E Apache “Guardian” helicopters, ordered in 2024. Poland is set to receive 96 AH-64Es by 2028, making it the second-largest user of Apache helicopters after the U.S. This move is part of Poland's broader military modernization in response to increasing tensions on NATO's eastern flank. The AH-64D Apache Longbow is equipped with a 30mm M230 chain gun, rockets, and missiles, and can reach speeds of 173 mph, offering significant airborne attack capabilities for Poland's armed forces.

Three More F-35s Delivered to Norway Despite Tensions with US 

Norway’s Royal Air Force has received three more F-35A fighters, increasing its fleet to 49 aircraft, with the final three expected by spring to complete its 52-unit procurement. The country has added nine F-35s in the past three months as part of its transition from aging F-16s. Norway’s first F-35 flew in 2015, with operational deployment beginning in 2017 at Ørland Air Base. The aircraft achieved initial operational capability in 2019 and joined NATO air patrols in 2020. Norwegian F-35s are stationed at Ørland and Evenes air bases, with several deployed at Poland’s 31st Tactical Air Base near Poznań to support NATO’s air and missile defense and protect airspace near key logistics routes for military aid to Ukraine. In January 2025, Norway became the first nation to operate the F-35 with blended biofuels, enabled by Lockheed Martin’s certification of synthetic aviation fuel (SATF), allowing a mix of up to 50% biofuel with standard jet fuel, marking a significant step in sustainable military aviation. 

As Divide Widens, Germany Looks for Massive Rearmament 

Germany is set to significantly increase defense spending as Friedrich Merz, the likely next chancellor, pushes to reform constitutional debt limits to boost military investment amid growing concerns over U.S. security guarantees. Merz aims to exempt military spending exceeding 1% of GDP from budget constraints, potentially doubling Germany’s defense budget to €100 billion annually. The CDU/CSU and Social Democrats are working to fast-track the reform through parliament before forming a new government, driven by fears that Donald Trump’s direct negotiations with Russia may sideline European interests. Merz also proposed a €500-billion infrastructure investment plan to stimulate Germany’s stagnating economy. In Brussels, Germany urged an overhaul of EU spending rules to allow for sustained defense investments beyond the proposed four-year exemption, a stance met with resistance from fiscally conservative states. Amid rising geopolitical tensions, Merz held talks with NATO chief Mark Rutte, emphasizing that Germany and Europe must massively invest in their defense capabilities. EU leaders are set to discuss these proposals at a summit focused on Ukraine and defense policy.

German Defense Minister Says Germany is Out of Weapons for Ukraine 

Germany has reached its limit in supplying weapons to Ukraine from its own Bundeswehr stockpiles, according to Michael Stempfle, a spokesperson for the German Ministry of Defense. In a Wednesday briefing, Stempfle acknowledged that while Germany had already provided significant military aid, including Leopard tanks, anti-aircraft systems, and self-propelled armored vehicles, there was a "natural limit" to further transfers. He emphasized the importance of maintaining Germany’s own defense readiness while supporting European allies. Germany has contributed around €44 billion ($47 billion) in military and financial aid to Ukraine since the war's escalation in 2022. This announcement comes amid reports that U.S. President Trump ordered a halt to all weapons deliveries to Ukraine, including battle tanks, long-range missiles, and air defense systems, as well as suspending intelligence sharing. Ukrainian President Zelensky has voiced concerns that the suspension of foreign support will hinder Ukraine’s ability to sustain its defense efforts, while Russia continues to criticize Western aid as a hindrance to peace. 

Despite Outrage, Lithuania Drops Out of Cluster Bomb Treaty 

Lithuania has withdrawn from the international convention banning cluster bombs, citing security concerns related to Russia’s actions in Ukraine. The decision, which took effect on March 5, makes Lithuania the first country to exit the 2008 convention and the first EU nation to leave a multilateral arms regulation agreement. Lithuania, a NATO member, aims to bolster its defenses against potential Russian aggression, fearing it could be targeted if Moscow succeeds in Ukraine. While the move has been criticized by human rights groups like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, who warn of the risks to civilian lives, Lithuanian officials argue that cluster bombs are crucial for deterrence and defense against large-area targets. Lithuania’s Deputy Defense Minister Karolis Aleksa emphasized that withdrawing from the convention allows the country to enhance its military capabilities. The country is also considering withdrawing from the Anti-Personnel Landmines Convention, reflecting broader concerns over national security in the face of heightened tensions with Russia. Humanitarian organizations have expressed concern that Lithuania’s actions could encourage other countries to reconsider their disarmament commitments. 

Europe to Increase Defense Spending Beyond 3% Urges EU Commission 

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urged EU member states to increase defense spending beyond 3% of GDP during a European Parliament debate on Tuesday, warning that Europe must strengthen its own security. She noted that the EU’s current defense expenditure is just under 2% and emphasized that since the EU budget covers only about 1% of GDP, member states must take on the majority of new investments. Von der Leyen criticized past reliance on integrating Russia into Europe’s security framework and depending on U.S. protection, calling this the “time of illusions.” She stressed the urgency of addressing gaps in Ukraine’s military supplies and ensuring solid security guarantees for both Ukraine and Europe. Highlighting that Russia’s defense industry is outproducing Europe’s and that Putin cannot be trusted, she argued that deterrence is the only option. She concluded by expressing confidence that, if Europe fully mobilizes its industrial capacity, it can restore its defense capabilities and counter threats posed by adversaries like Russia.

Czech Republic Set to Increase Defense Spending to 3% by 2030 

The Czech government has approved a plan to raise its defense spending to 3 percent of GDP by 2030, up from the current 2 percent. This increase will be implemented gradually, with an annual rise of 0.2 percent starting in 2026. The additional funds will bolster land forces, air and missile defense, command and control systems, logistics, ammunition stock replenishment, and infrastructure modernization. Defense Minister Jana Černochová emphasized that the current 2 percent commitment is insufficient given the worsening security situation in Europe. Some Czech Armed Forces units still operate outdated Soviet-era equipment, prompting a major modernization effort. This move is part of a broader trend in Europe, with several countries planning to surpass NATO’s 2 percent defense spending target. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently unveiled the “ReArm Europe” initiative, mobilizing 800 billion euros to enhance European defense and support Ukraine. Additionally, Denmark and Lithuania have also committed to significantly boosting their defense budgets, with Lithuania planning 5–6 percent of GDP from 2026 to 2030.

Poland Request Nuclear Weapons from Trump 

Poland's President Andrzej Duda has called for the deployment of U.S. nuclear weapons in Poland, arguing that NATO's nuclear infrastructure should move eastward, reflecting the alliance's expansion since 1999. This suggestion comes amid escalating nuclear threats from Russia, especially after the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons to Belarus, a country bordering Poland. Duda emphasized that the "time has come" for nuclear weapons to be stationed in Poland, proposing that U.S. warheads currently in Western Europe could be redeployed. He also advocated for reviving a nuclear-sharing initiative, which was rejected by the Biden administration in 2022. While Duda rejected the idea of Poland developing its own nuclear arsenal, he expressed interest in France’s offer to extend its "nuclear umbrella" to protect Poland. This proposal has been raised in the context of NATO's growing concerns about Russia’s nuclear capabilities. Experts, such as Andrew Futter, suggest that U.S. policy under President Trump could lead to an increase in nuclear weapons, potentially affecting NATO’s defense strategies. 

$53BN Alternate Gaza Reconstruction Plan Rejected by US and Israel 

The United States and Israel swiftly rejected a $53 billion Gaza peace and reconstruction plan proposed by the Arab League under Egypt’s leadership. The plan, aimed at rebuilding Gaza by 2030, would allow the two million Palestinians to remain in the region, unlike President Trump’s earlier proposal to relocate them to neighboring Arab states. The plan calls for a UN peacekeeping force, a World Bank-backed trust fund for reconstruction, and eco-friendly housing. It also includes plans to expand Gaza's coastline using recycled rubble and renewable energy. While Hamas welcomed the proposal, they supported eventual governance by the Palestinian Authority. In contrast, Israel criticized the plan, arguing it failed to address the realities after the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas and ignored Israel’s perspective. The White House also dismissed the plan, with National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes arguing it did not consider Gaza’s current uninhabitable state. Trump, however, reaffirmed his vision of rebuilding Gaza free from Hamas. 

Attack on Iran Prospects Grow as US Q-4 Spy Drone Tracked in Near Iranian Coast 

A U.S. MQ-4C reconnaissance drone was tracked flying close to Iranian airspace near the southern border, according to flight data from FlightRadar24. This move is part of the U.S.'s increased reconnaissance operations near Iran amidst growing regional tensions between Iran and Israel. On March 3, the MQ-4C Triton drone, departing from the UAE, flew near Iran’s Kish Island, home to several Iranian naval bases, before disappearing from radar after about 12 hours in flight. The U.S. has ramped up military presence in the region, including previous B-52 bomber flyovers, signaling pressure on Tehran amid ongoing tensions over Iran's nuclear program. While President Trump's administration focuses on diplomatic negotiations to halt Iran's uranium enrichment, the heightened U.S. military presence raises concerns of potential escalation. This follows a history of confrontations, such as the 2019 downing of an MQ-4C by Iran. Despite Iran initially signaling interest in negotiations, Supreme Leader Khamenei rejected talks, while Trump has escalated sanctions to increase pressure. 

United States Gets Waring from Iran 

Iran has warned of a firm response if the U.S. imposes further demands over its nuclear program. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi emphasized that "every action compels a reaction," following U.S. President Donald Trump's letter to Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, which mixed diplomatic outreach with economic sanctions. Tensions have been escalating since Trump launched a "maximum pressure" campaign to force Iran to renegotiate its nuclear program. Iranian officials rejected the letter, accusing the U.S. of "bullying" and asserting they would not negotiate under pressure. Iran has ramped up uranium production, nearing weapons-grade levels, as reported by the International Atomic Energy Agency. The U.S. has suggested military action against Iran if its nuclear ambitions are not curtailed, though Trump expressed a preference for diplomacy. Araghchi reiterated that Iran’s nuclear program is peaceful and rejected any talks under coercion, stressing negotiations with the E3, Russia, and China, aiming for transparency and the lifting of sanctions. The U.N. Security Council is set to discuss Iran's nuclear activities soon. 

Moscow Sees Significant Ukrainian Drone Attack, Civilian Buildings Hit and Airports Close 

A large-scale Ukrainian drone attack targeted Moscow and its surrounding region early Tuesday, causing fires, damaging buildings, and disrupting major airports. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin and Governor Andrei Vorobyov described it as the largest drone assault on the Russian capital since the war began. Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed to have intercepted 337 UAVs overnight, including 91 over Moscow and 126 over Kursk. The attack, which began around 3 a.m. local time, resulted in one death and three injuries in Leninsky and Domodedovo. Drone debris damaged an apartment complex in Ramenskoye and a residential building in Vidne. Airports in Moscow, Yaroslavl, and Nizhny Novgorod saw temporary flight suspensions, while train services near Domodedovo were briefly halted. Russian air defenses, including Pantsir-S1 systems and electronic warfare units, engaged the UAVs. The Russian Investigative Committee launched a terrorism probe, but Moscow’s central areas remained calm. The strike coincided with U.S.-Ukraine talks in Saudi Arabia, where Ukrainian officials are meeting American diplomats for potential peace discussions.

Ukraine is Reportedly Out of US Long-Range ATACMS 

As of May 12, Ukraine has run out of long-range Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS), according to unnamed U.S. and Ukrainian officials. This development follows a temporary halt in U.S. military aid in early March, which was lifted after discussions between Ukrainian delegates and U.S. representatives in Saudi Arabia on March 11. ATACMS, U.S.-supplied ballistic missiles with a range of up to 300 kilometers, were provided to Ukraine in late 2023 and early 2024, following a policy shift by President Joe Biden allowing their use against Russian military targets. Despite receiving fewer than 40 ATACMS, Ukraine exhausted its supply by January 2025. This shortage follows earlier reports indicating Ukraine's limited use of these missiles, especially after Biden's policy change permitted strikes on Russian airfields and military facilities. The resumption of U.S. weapons deliveries came after a freeze, which followed a dispute between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Ukraine agreed to a ceasefire during the resumption of aid, contingent on Moscow’s compliance. 

Day After UK and Ukraine Sign $2.85BN Military Support Deal, Brit PM Announces Ukraine ‘Ceasefire Plan’ 

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the U.K., France, and potentially one or two other nations will collaborate on a ceasefire plan to end the Ukraine-Russia war, emphasizing that the initiative prioritizes European security and Ukraine’s best interests. The announcement follows a £2.26 billion ($2.85 billion) U.K. loan deal with Ukraine for defense purchases, despite tensions between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trump over a minerals-for-arms deal. Starmer confirmed that the U.K. and France are leading ceasefire discussions and will later engage with the U.S., suggesting a “coalition of the willing” is forming to address the conflict. Alongside the ceasefire efforts, Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron are also developing broader European security measures. The long-term U.K. loan to Ukraine, signed by Ukrainian Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko and British Treasury head Rachel Reeves, will be repaid using profits from frozen Russian sovereign assets and will fund Ukraine’s defense and weapons production. The agreement underscores continued British commitment to Ukraine’s military resilience.

EU Spends Less on Defending Ukraine than Buying Russian Oil According to Trump 

On Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Europe for spending more on Russian oil and gas than on defending Ukraine against Russia. He highlighted that EU member states spent €21.9 billion on Russian energy in the third year of the war, surpassing the €18.7 billion allocated to Ukraine in financial aid for 2024. Trump made this statement on Truth Social, emphasizing the disparity in Europe's financial priorities. Reports also indicated that Trump had paused military aid to Ukraine after a clash with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office, as Trump sought a quick resolution to the war. In contrast, Zelenskyy has pushed for security guarantees. Meanwhile, European leaders are working on presenting their own peace plans, and the EU announced an €800 billion ReArm Europe initiative to increase defense spending and provide urgent support for Ukraine.

Zelensky Changes Tune, Clash with Trump “Regrettable”, “Time to Make Things Right” 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called his recent clash with U.S. President Donald Trump "regrettable" and expressed readiness to work under Trump's leadership, stating it was "time to make things right." His remarks came after Washington paused military aid to Kyiv, following a tense meeting between Zelensky, Trump, and Vice President JD Vance that ended in public acrimony. Zelensky acknowledged the meeting at the White House on Friday did not go as intended and emphasized his commitment to securing a lasting peace. His conciliatory tone suggests an effort to mend relations with the U.S. administration amid Ukraine’s ongoing struggle for military support...but yet again at the 11th hour, Zelensky has decided he is not going to sign on to the agreement. As a result, President Trump has gone scorched earth, cutting off weapons and intelligence along with plans to revoke the legal status of 240,000 Ukrainians.

Weapons Aid Flights to Ukraine from US Turned Around Midflight 

Following a tense confrontation between President Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Zelensky over allegations of ingratitude, the White House announced the suspension of military aid to Ukraine. The halt, confirmed by the Pentagon, took immediate effect on Monday evening, with U.S. weapons shipments to Ukraine ceasing abruptly. Planes en route to deliver supplies were ordered to turn back mid-flight. It was unclear if direct contracts between Ukraine and U.S. weapons manufacturers, funded through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, would be impacted, though a significant portion of the allocated $21.2 billion fund remained unused. While some speculated that Trump would unveil a minerals deal with Ukraine during his Tuesday night address, he only referenced Zelensky’s vague interest in such an agreement. The decision has sparked panic among Democrats, with Senator Jeanne Shaheen criticizing the move as dangerous and shameful, urging a reversal. Additionally, the White House suspended intelligence-sharing with Ukraine, further escalating tensions in Washington’s relationship with Kiev.

All Intelligence Sharing with Ukraine Paused by US 

The US has paused intelligence sharing with Ukraine following a significant breakdown in relations between Kyiv and Washington. This came after a public confrontation between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office, which was followed by the suspension of vital US military aid to Ukraine. CIA Director John Ratcliffe confirmed that both military and intelligence support had been temporarily halted, with Trump questioning Zelensky's commitment to the peace process. US intelligence plays a crucial role in Ukraine’s defense against Russia, and the suspension has shocked many Ukrainians. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz stated that the US is reviewing its relationship with Ukraine. Despite the tension, Zelensky has expressed regret over the fallout, seeking to repair ties with Trump, who read a letter from Zelensky to the US Congress offering to negotiate with Russia for peace. The US government expects to resume cooperation with Ukraine once the situation is resolved.

240K Ukrainian Refugees Could See Legal Status Revoked by Trump Administration 

The Trump Administration is planning to revoke the temporary legal status of 240,000 Ukrainians who fled Russia's war, potentially leading to fast-tracked deportations as early as April. This decision is part of a broader effort to roll back protections extended to migrants under President Joe Biden, including the 1.8 million individuals granted temporary status. The move follows Trump’s hardline stance on immigration and his goal to increase border security and expedite deportations, a focus he initiated with multiple executive orders in his first week in office. The revocation would be a significant shift from Biden’s welcoming stance toward Ukrainians fleeing the war. The Trump Administration’s decision is facing legal challenges, as a lawsuit aims to restore humanitarian parole programs that allowed migrants from various countries, including Ukraine, to enter the U.S. The decision has sparked political opposition, with a poll showing 55% of voters supporting such immigration policies, although many anticipate legal battles over this and broader immigration policies. 

French PM Macron Proposes Nuclear Umbrella Extension and Troop Deployment to Ukraine 

French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to discuss extending France’s nuclear deterrent to European allies and raised the possibility of deploying European troops to Ukraine to enforce a future peace deal. His remarks come as Europe reassesses its security strategy following Donald Trump’s policy shifts, including a reversal of U.S. support for Ukraine. Macron warned that Russia poses a long-term threat to France and Europe, arguing that “peace cannot be agreed at any cost” and must be enforced to prevent further Russian aggression. He emphasized that European forces, if deployed, would not engage in combat but would ensure compliance with a potential peace agreement. Macron also called for increased European defense spending and responded to German Chancellor-elect Friedrich Merz’s call for “nuclear sharing” discussions. Amid tensions with Washington, he criticized Trump’s planned tariffs on European products and is considering a joint visit to the U.S. with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Zelensky. Macron’s comments reflect growing European unease over U.S. foreign policy and Russia’s ambitions.

Peace Talks Between US and Ukraine Underway in Saudi Arabia 

U.S. and Ukrainian delegations met in Jeddah on Tuesday to discuss potential peace prospects with Russia. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha attended the talks alongside Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan. Ukraine is expected to propose a partial ceasefire plan to regain Washington’s support amid recent tensions, including a clash between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trump. On Sunday, Trump stated that Ukraine must show a willingness for peace, while Zelenskyy reiterated on Monday that Ukraine has sought peace since the war began, blaming Russia for its continuation. Russia, which launched its military offensive on Feb. 24, 2022, demands Ukraine abandon aspirations to join Western military alliances as a condition for peace, a stance Kyiv rejects as an infringement on its sovereignty. The Jeddah talks mark an effort to strengthen U.S.-Ukraine relations and explore diplomatic solutions, though the feasibility of a ceasefire remains uncertain amid ongoing hostilities and geopolitical tensions.

Trump Admin Tells Zelensky He Must Prepare Elections and Cede Territory to End War 

The Trump White House is conditioning the resumption of U.S. military aid and intelligence sharing to Ukraine on President Volodymyr Zelenskyy planning elections or considering stepping down, according to a new NBC report. Secretary of State Marco Rubio further stated that Ukraine must cede territory, particularly areas Russia has controlled since 2014, as part of any agreement to end the war. As American and Ukrainian officials meet in Saudi Arabia, the issue of elections in Ukraine, suspended under martial law, is gaining prominence. Rubio emphasized the need for Ukraine to show willingness to make difficult concessions for peace. While there is growing recognition in Washington that Ukraine may not recover territories annexed by Russia, the issue of Crimea remains a major sticking point. Zelenskyy's term expired in May 2024, but the Ukrainian parliament reaffirmed his mandate amid wartime conditions. Trump has criticized Zelenskyy, calling him a "dictator" for canceling elections. Meanwhile, Russia and Ukraine continue drone attacks on critical energy infrastructure, with Ukraine facing setbacks in the war of attrition.