President Trump called Vladimir Putin "absolutely crazy" following one of Russia's biggest-ever aerial assaults on Ukraine. The intense attacks over two nights involved 367 drones and missiles on Kyiv and other regions, resulting in at least 12 deaths, including children, and dozens injured. Ukrainian officials reported damage to over 80 residential buildings, though missile defenses intercepted most strikes. Ukrainian President Zelensky urged stronger international sanctions, stating Russia is "dragging out this war" and killing daily. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed it targeted military production facilities and shot down Ukrainian drones, while Ukraine used F-16s and counterattacks. Despite Trump's hopes for a cease-fire, Putin rejected a 30-day truce, believing Russia is winning.
During a Memorial Day tribute to families of fallen soldiers, Donald Trump delivered a speech with the declaration: "Look at me, I have everything". Speaking alongside figures like JD Vance and Pete Hegseth, Trump's statement appeared to highlight his personal success and stature against the solemn backdrop of honoring sacrifices. This tone reflected his characteristic bravado and self-focus, drawing mixed reactions. The event underscored how Trump connects his personal narrative to national remembrance, positioning himself as a figure of strength and achievement, potentially aiming messages at his political base and grieving families.
Tesla’s European sales dropped significantly, plunging by nearly half last month. According to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, Tesla sold 7,261 vehicles in April, down from 14,228 the previous year, while the overall electric vehicle market grew by 28%. This decline is seen as a deep brand slump, partly attributed to growing consumer backlash against CEO Elon Musk’s far-right political stances, Tesla's aging model lineup, and recent factory shutdowns. Rising competition, including a 54% jump in sales for Chinese brands like SAIC, also contributed. U.S.-EU trade tensions and looming tariffs have reportedly dampened American brand appeal.
North Korea condemned the US's new ‘Golden Dome’ missile defense system, warning it risks turning outer space into a "potential nuclear war field". This system, announced by President Trump to counter next-gen aerial threats, was branded by North Korea's foreign ministry as "the height of self-righteousness". They accused Washington of militarizing space and potentially triggering a global arms race, viewing the Golden Dome as a direct threat to its nuclear arsenal. Analysts expect North Korea to respond by developing new weapons to bypass the system. China also expressed "serious concern," calling the shield a violation of global security balance and highlighting its geopolitical ramifications. The US has allocated $25 billion to initiate the Golden Dome, a project expected to reshape missile defense and international tensions.
President Trump pardoned former Culpeper County Sheriff Scott Jenkins, who had been sentenced to 10 years for federal bribery charges. Trump claimed Jenkins was "dragged through HELL" by a "Corrupt and Weaponized Biden DOJ". Jenkins was convicted of conspiracy, fraud, and bribery for deputizing businessmen in exchange for cash payments. Despite the conviction, Trump insisted Jenkins "doesn’t deserve to spend a single day in jail" and called him a "wonderful person" persecuted by "Radical Left monsters". This pardon is one of a growing list extended by Trump to political allies and supporters. Jenkins is appealing his conviction, alleging a Biden-appointed judge blocked defense evidence, while the U.S. Attorney stressed the DOJ's commitment to holding corrupt officials accountable. The source stated Trump's move reignites debate over pardons and diminishes the US justice system.
The Senate faces a critical test as Republican senators clash over President Trump's large tax, spending, and defense bill, known as the ‘Big Bill’. The legislation, which narrowly passed the House, aims to cut taxes, raise the debt limit, and boost defense and border security funding before a July 4 deadline. However, deep divisions exist within the party, and Senate Majority Leader John Thune can only lose three Republican votes. Medicaid cuts are a major sticking point, with some senators concerned about the impact on vulnerable recipients and rural hospitals. Other senators demand deeper spending cuts. Tax policy is another area of conflict, with debates over making business breaks permanent versus opposing boosts to the state and local tax deduction. Provisions related to clean energy, child care credits, and others also face scrutiny. The bill lacks Democratic support, complicating its passage.
