U.S. President Trump signals a shift in foreign policy by seeking a conciliatory stance with Russia, causing concerns among European and NATO allies. Trump's proposal to reinstate Russia into the G7 and his outreach to Putin before Ukraine have raised eyebrows. As the U.S. prioritizes domestic security and competition with China, European leaders remain vigilant.

Israel confirms the release of three hostages, Sagui Dekel-Chen, Alexandre Troufanov, and Iair Horn, as part of the ongoing Gaza ceasefire agreement. In exchange, Israel will release 369 Palestinian prisoners. The fragile ceasefire persists amid political and humanitarian tensions, with concerns over the hostages' conditions and calls for immediate international intervention.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been confirmed as the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services with a 52-48 Senate vote, highlighting deep political divides. His controversial stance on vaccines has drawn criticism, including from Senator Mitch McConnell, but supporters believe his appointment will challenge traditional health policies and emphasize individual medical choices.

Authorities in Indiana charged an 18-year-old, Trinity Shockley, with conspiracy to commit murder and terrorism-related offenses after uncovering their plan for a school shooting inspired by the 2018 Parkland massacre. Shockley was arrested after FBI intelligence led to disturbing evidence, including messages detailing the attack. The community is shaken but relieved that the tragic event was prevented.

The Trump administration is pushing to weaken the U.S. Department of Education, with deep budget cuts already in motion. Trump has nominated Linda McMahon to spearhead the effort to decentralize education, which faces widespread public opposition. Key concerns include the future of student loans and potential disparities in education quality if control shifts to state and local governments.

Thousands of probationary federal employees were dismissed following a Trump administration directive, targeting workers with less than two years of service. Affected agencies include the Departments of Energy and Veterans Affairs. The terminations, criticized by employee unions, aim to streamline federal operations and are part of a broader effort to reduce government workforce.

India and the U.S. have launched ‘Mission 500’ to more than double bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump committed to negotiating a Bilateral Trade Agreement by fall 2025. They also introduced COMPACT to enhance trade, align trade policies with national security, and foster technological innovation.

President Trump has directed federal agencies to explore reciprocal tariffs, aiming to counteract high foreign tariffs on U.S. goods. The plan, targeting countries like India, could raise U.S. revenue but might also escalate global trade tensions and inflation. The Dow Jones responded positively, though economists warn of trade war risks and consumer cost increases.

A severe atmospheric river hit Southern California, causing mudslides, floods, and power outages. Major roads were blocked, prompting evacuation orders and school closures. The storm shattered rainfall records and left thousands without power. Cleanup efforts are ongoing, with officials warning of continued risks in wildfire-affected areas. The storm underscores the region’s vulnerability to extreme weather.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's declaration that American security priorities will no longer center on Europe has left NATO at a critical juncture. This policy shift implies Europe must take more responsibility for its own defense and raises questions about NATO's future unity and effectiveness, especially concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.