US President Donald Trump on Friday (July 18) accused Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell of “choking out the housing market” owing to their high interest rate. As Trump has been lashing out at the Federal Reserve chief, he called him “one of his worst appointments”. The US president took to Truth Social, slamming Powell, as he continued to say that former President Joe Biden knew how bad Powell was, and still reappointed him anyway.&nbsp;He further complained that even the Feb Board did nothing to stop him.&nbsp;“Too Late,” and the Fed, are choking out the housing market with their high rate, making it difficult for people, especially the young, to buy a house. He is truly one of my worst appointments. Sleepy Joe saw how bad he was and reappointed him anyway - And the Fed Board has done nothing to stop this “numbskull” from hurting so many people,” Trump said in his post.&nbsp;Trump stressed that the board is equally to blame. “In many ways, the Board is equally to blame! The USA is Rockin’, there is VERY LOW INFLATION, and we deserve to be at 1%, saving One Trillion Dollars a year on Interest Costs.”He continued, “I can’t tell you how dumb Too Late is - So bad for our Country!”&nbsp;Earlier this week, the US president dismissed reports claiming he planned to fire Jerome Powell, saying that although he did discuss the idea with Republicans. “Almost every one of them said I should, but I’m more conservative than they are,” Trump said.&nbsp;Several outlets, including Bloomberg and The New York Times, had reported that Trump drafted a letter to dismiss Powell and asked Republican allies for advice on whether to send it.&nbsp;Although he said he was unlikely to remove Powell, Trump added, “I don’t rule out anything, but I think it’s highly unlikely unless he has to leave for fraud.” He repeated his long-standing criticism of the Fed chair, “He’s always been too late, hence his nickname ‘Too Late’. He should’ve cut interest rates a long time ago.”&nbsp;Trump claimed Powell only reduced rates to help Democrats in the 2024 election, adding, “He’s doing a lousy job, but no, I’m not talking about that.”

Once again, the US president slammed Jerome Powell, this time for choking out housing market with their high rate, as he says that he was one of his worst appointments. Trump said that not even the Fed Board did anything to stop him from hurting people.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (July 18) accused Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell of “choking out the housing market” owing to their high interest rate. As Trump has been lashing out at the Federal Reserve chief, he called him “one of his worst appointments”. The US president took to Truth Social, slamming Powell, as he continued to say that former President Joe Biden knew how bad Powell was, and still reappointed him anyway. He further complained that even the Feb Board did nothing to stop him. “Too Late,” and the Fed, are choking out the housing market with their high rate, making it difficult for people, especially the young, to buy a house. He is truly one of my worst appointments. Sleepy Joe saw how bad he was and reappointed him anyway - And the Fed Board has done nothing to stop this “numbskull” from hurting so many people,” Trump said in his post. Trump stressed that the board is equally to blame. “In many ways, the Board is equally to blame! The USA is Rockin’, there is VERY LOW INFLATION, and we deserve to be at 1%, saving One Trillion Dollars a year on Interest Costs.” He continued, “I can’t tell you how dumb Too Late is - So bad for our Country!” Earlier this week, the US president dismissed reports claiming he planned to fire Jerome Powell, saying that although he did discuss the idea with Republicans. “Almost every one of them said I should, but I’m more conservative than they are,” Trump said. Several outlets, including Bloomberg and The New York Times, had reported that Trump drafted a letter to dismiss Powell and asked Republican allies for advice on whether to send it. Although he said he was unlikely to remove Powell, Trump added, “I don’t rule out anything, but I think it’s highly unlikely unless he has to leave for fraud.” He repeated his long-standing criticism of the Fed chair, “He’s always been too late, hence his nickname ‘Too Late’. He should’ve cut interest rates a long time ago.” Trump claimed Powell only reduced rates to help Democrats in the 2024 election, adding, “He’s doing a lousy job, but no, I’m not talking about that.”

Once again, the US president slammed Jerome Powell, this time for “choking out” housing market with their high rate, as he says that he was one of his worst appointments. Trump said that not even the Fed Board did anything to stop him from hurting people.

'One of my worst appointments’: Trump again lashes out at Jerome Powell for ‘choking out’ US housing markets

US President Donald Trump's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein continues to make headlines. One of his former staff members told CNN in an interview that the two were once caught bringing young girls to Trump's casino in Atlantic City. The girls were not old enough to gamble, he added. The White House has denied the allegations. Jack O’Donnell managed the Atlantic City Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino for four years in the 1980s. In an interview with CNN's Erin Burnett on July 16, he said that Epstein appeared to him as Trump's "best friend." Notably, Epstein was accused of abusing several underage girls and was later slapped with federal charges for the sex trafficking of minors in Florida and New York. Epstein was found dead in his cell on August 10, 2019, and it was ruled a suicide by hanging. Now, Trump is in the news for the Epstein files and has ordered his Attorney General, Pam Bondi, to release more documents related to the case. This comes after a Wall Street Journal report said that Trump sent Epstein a letter with the drawing of a naked woman on his 50th birthday. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-finally-releasing-epstein-files-here-s-what-he-told-pam-bondi-to-do-after-letter-row-this-scam-1752805484181">Trump FINALLY releasing Epstein Files? Here's what he told Pam Bondi to do after letter row: 'This SCAM...'</a><h2>Underage tennis star accompanied Trump and Epstein</h2>O’Donnell told CNN that he often saw Trump and Epstein together at the casino. "In my mind, [Epstein] was his best friend, you know, [throughout] the time I was there for four years,” he said. He recalled a particular incident from the late 1980s when they brought three girls with them. Epstein and Trump took them to the casino floor even though they were not 21. One of them was a tennis player and had a world ranking of three at the time. This is how the officials got to know that the girls were underage. O’Donnell said he learnt about it the next day when state casino commission inspectors reached Trump's office. "This [inspector] happened to be a tennis fan and he said, 'Jack, I know she’s 19 years old,' " O'Donnell said. "They had determined that the women that they brought down were underage to be in the casino.” Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-fake-news-trump-denies-sending-naked-woman-drawing-letter-for-jeffrey-epstein-s-50th-birthday-here-s-what-it-is-1752800746823">'FAKE NEWS': Trump denies sending 'naked woman drawing' letter for Jeffrey Epstein's 50th birthday - Here's what the letter claims</a>&nbsp;It is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to gamble in New Jersey. However, O’Donnell said that the officers left Trump only with a warning. "I had to call them and say, 'They're giving you a break this time, but if this happens again, the fine is going to be substantial and it's going to be on your head,' " he claimed. O’Donnell said he even cautioned Trump against Epstein and that he should not be "hanging out" with him. "I did tell him in that conversation, 'I don’t think you should be hanging out with this guy, just so you know, and you certainly shouldn’t be doing that in Atlantic City,' " he said.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-trump-says-epstein-critics-are-being-used-by-democrats-1752774251430/embed<h2>White House slams O’Donnell as liar and fraud</h2>Meanwhile, White House communications director Steven Cheung dismissed the allegations made by O’Donnell, calling him a "stone-cold loser who is a liar and a fraud." He told People in a statement, "This is completely fabricated story from his warped imagination as he suffers from Trump Derangement Syndrome that has rotted his pea-sized brain.” The president has been trying to cut himself off from the matter, but the Trump administration is being pressured to release more evidence about Epstein's 2019 child sex-trafficking case. On Thursday night (July 17), Trump issued an order for the release of the files. "Based on the ridiculous amount of publicity given to Jeffrey Epstein, I have asked Attorney General Pam Bondi to produce any and all pertinent Grand Jury testimony, subject to Court approval. This SCAM, perpetuated by the Democrats, should end, right now!" he wrote on Truth Social.&nbsp;

Trump-Epstein scandal: US President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein brought underage girls to his Atlantic City casino, a former manager of the Atlantic City Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino has alleged. One of them was tennis player who was ranked world number 3 at the time, he told CNN. 

US President Donald Trump's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein continues to make headlines. One of his former staff members told CNN in an interview that the two were once caught bringing young girls to Trump's casino in Atlantic City. The girls were not old enough to gamble, he added. The White House has denied the allegations. Jack O’Donnell managed the Atlantic City Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino for four years in the 1980s. In an interview with CNN's Erin Burnett on July 16, he said that Epstein appeared to him as Trump's "best friend." Notably, Epstein was accused of abusing several underage girls and was later slapped with federal charges for the sex trafficking of minors in Florida and New York. Epstein was found dead in his cell on August 10, 2019, and it was ruled a suicide by hanging. Now, Trump is in the news for the Epstein files and has ordered his Attorney General, Pam Bondi, to release more documents related to the case. This comes after a Wall Street Journal report said that Trump sent Epstein a letter with the drawing of a naked woman on his 50th birthday. Also Read: Trump FINALLY releasing Epstein Files? Here's what he told Pam Bondi to do after letter row: 'This SCAM...' Underage tennis star accompanied Trump and Epstein O’Donnell told CNN that he often saw Trump and Epstein together at the casino. "In my mind, [Epstein] was his best friend, you know, [throughout] the time I was there for four years,” he said. He recalled a particular incident from the late 1980s when they brought three girls with them. Epstein and Trump took them to the casino floor even though they were not 21. One of them was a tennis player and had a world ranking of three at the time. This is how the officials got to know that the girls were underage. O’Donnell said he learnt about it the next day when state casino commission inspectors reached Trump's office. "This [inspector] happened to be a tennis fan and he said, 'Jack, I know she’s 19 years old,' " O'Donnell said. "They had determined that the women that they brought down were underage to be in the casino.” Also Read: 'FAKE NEWS': Trump denies sending 'naked woman drawing' letter for Jeffrey Epstein's 50th birthday - Here's what the letter claims It is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to gamble in New Jersey. However, O’Donnell said that the officers left Trump only with a warning. "I had to call them and say, 'They're giving you a break this time, but if this happens again, the fine is going to be substantial and it's going to be on your head,' " he claimed. O’Donnell said he even cautioned Trump against Epstein and that he should not be "hanging out" with him. "I did tell him in that conversation, 'I don’t think you should be hanging out with this guy, just so you know, and you certainly shouldn’t be doing that in Atlantic City,' " he said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-trump-says-epstein-critics-are-being-used-by-democrats-1752774251430/embed White House slams O’Donnell as liar and fraud Meanwhile, White House communications director Steven Cheung dismissed the allegations made by O’Donnell, calling him a "stone-cold loser who is a liar and a fraud." He told People in a statement, "This is completely fabricated story from his warped imagination as he suffers from Trump Derangement Syndrome that has rotted his pea-sized brain.” The president has been trying to cut himself off from the matter, but the Trump administration is being pressured to release more evidence about Epstein's 2019 child sex-trafficking case. On Thursday night (July 17), Trump issued an order for the release of the files. "Based on the ridiculous amount of publicity given to Jeffrey Epstein, I have asked Attorney General Pam Bondi to produce any and all pertinent Grand Jury testimony, subject to Court approval. This SCAM, perpetuated by the Democrats, should end, right now!" he wrote on Truth Social.

Trump-Epstein scandal: US President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein brought underage girls to his Atlantic City casino, a former manager of the Atlantic City Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino has alleged. One of them was a tennis player ranked world number 3 at the time, he told CNN.&nbsp;

Trump-Epstein brought underage girls to casino, one of whom was world number 3 tennis player, former manager alleges

Reports of US President Donald Trump's visit to Pakistan in September surfaced on Thursday (July 17). Two leading channels were running it until the foreign office issued a statement saying it had no knowledge of the said visit. Shortly, the channels apologised to its viewers.&nbsp;"A trip to Pakistan has not been scheduled at this time", the White House confirmed to news agency ANI.&nbsp;The report suggested that Trump would visit Islamabad and then continue his tour by visiting India. The last time Trump visited India was in February 2020, and the last US president to visit Pakistan was George W. Bush in 2006. The channels ran the news at a time when Trump had been reiterating that he brokered peace between the two nuclear-armed nations. Mentioning it on multiple occasions, Trump recently highlighted the India-Pakistan conflict during a meeting with the Secretary General of NATO, Mark Rutte, at the White House.&nbsp;Trump said, "We have been very successful in settling wars. You have India, Pakistan...India and Pakistan would have been a nuclear war within another week, the way that was going. That was going very badly. We did that through trade. I said, we're not going to talk to you about trade unless you get this thing settled. And they did, they are both great leaders."Talking about Trump's planned visit, US White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said he will be visiting Scotland from July 25 to July 29. She mentioned that the president would be visiting both Turnberry and Aberdine. A meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is also scheduled.&nbsp;

Reports of US President Donald Trump's visit to Pakistan in September surfaced on Thursday (July 17). The report suggested that Trump would visit Islamabad and then continue his tour by visiting India. 

Reports of US President Donald Trump's visit to Pakistan in September surfaced on Thursday (July 17). Two leading channels were running it until the foreign office issued a statement saying it had no knowledge of the said visit. Shortly, the channels apologised to its viewers. "A trip to Pakistan has not been scheduled at this time", the White House confirmed to news agency ANI. The report suggested that Trump would visit Islamabad and then continue his tour by visiting India. The last time Trump visited India was in February 2020, and the last US president to visit Pakistan was George W. Bush in 2006. The channels ran the news at a time when Trump had been reiterating that he brokered peace between the two nuclear-armed nations. Mentioning it on multiple occasions, Trump recently highlighted the India-Pakistan conflict during a meeting with the Secretary General of NATO, Mark Rutte, at the White House. Trump said, "We have been very successful in settling wars. You have India, Pakistan...India and Pakistan would have been a nuclear war within another week, the way that was going. That was going very badly. We did that through trade. I said, we're not going to talk to you about trade unless you get this thing settled. And they did, they are both great leaders." Talking about Trump's planned visit, US White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said he will be visiting Scotland from July 25 to July 29. She mentioned that the president would be visiting both Turnberry and Aberdine. A meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is also scheduled.

Reports of US President Donald Trump's visit to Pakistan in September surfaced on Thursday (July 17). The report suggested that Trump would visit Islamabad and then continue his tour by visiting India.&nbsp;

Will Trump visit Pakistan? White House clarifies after varied reports

As US President Donald Trump ordered the National Guard deployment to Los Angeles during anti-immigration protests last month, the soldiers shared their ordeal as they questioned their mission in Los Angeles, calling it a "fake mission".The commuters have been cursing the convoys clogging the pathways as they continue to fight the protesters demonstrating at the LA protests. All this has taken a toll on the deployment.&nbsp;In an interview to the New York Times, one of the soldiers said, "They gave Disneyland tickets to the people who worked in the wildfires. Nobody’s handing out Disneyland tickets now.”&nbsp;The outlet interviewed around two dozen people, including soldiers, officers and civilians who worked closely with the troops.&nbsp;Meanwhile, six members of the Guard, including officers, infantrymen and two officials who were serving in the leadership roles, talked about low morale and were concerned that the deployment may affect recruitment for the state-based military force in the upcoming years.&nbsp;The soldiers talked on the condition of anonymity since they are barred from discussing the federal deployment publicly.<h2>'Fake mission'</h2>&nbsp;Some of these people said that they themselves raised objections on this, or know someone who objected, that is, either because they did not want to be involved in Trump's immigration crackdowns. While some felt the Trump administration had made them stand on the streets on a "fake mission".&nbsp;As they were low on morale, at least 105 member guards took counseling from behavioural health officers, the Guard officer said.&nbsp;Notably, the California National Guard had 72 soldiers, and their enlistment was set to expire during the deployment. Out of those 72, at least two have left the guard and the other 55 have hinted that they will also not extend their work, the office of Governor Gavin Newsom said. Newsom is currently fighting against Trump's deployment in court.&nbsp;“The moral injuries of this operation, I think, will be enduring,” one of the two Guard officials said. “This is not what the military of our country was designed to do, at all.”&nbsp;However, these six soldiers are just a small fraction of the thousands of troops deployed by the Trump administration to Los Angeles. The other members have had no issue participating in the operation.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Six members of the National Guard Troops, shared they had low morale after Trump put them on Los Angeles streets during anti-immigration protests. They were concerned that the deployment in Los Angeles might affect recruitment for the state-based military force in the future. 

As US President Donald Trump ordered the National Guard deployment to Los Angeles during anti-immigration protests last month, the soldiers shared their ordeal as they questioned their mission in Los Angeles, calling it a "fake mission". The commuters have been cursing the convoys clogging the pathways as they continue to fight the protesters demonstrating at the LA protests. All this has taken a toll on the deployment. In an interview to the New York Times, one of the soldiers said, "They gave Disneyland tickets to the people who worked in the wildfires. Nobody’s handing out Disneyland tickets now.” The outlet interviewed around two dozen people, including soldiers, officers and civilians who worked closely with the troops. Meanwhile, six members of the Guard, including officers, infantrymen and two officials who were serving in the leadership roles, talked about low morale and were concerned that the deployment may affect recruitment for the state-based military force in the upcoming years. The soldiers talked on the condition of anonymity since they are barred from discussing the federal deployment publicly. 'Fake mission' Some of these people said that they themselves raised objections on this, or know someone who objected, that is, either because they did not want to be involved in Trump's immigration crackdowns. While some felt the Trump administration had made them stand on the streets on a "fake mission". As they were low on morale, at least 105 member guards took counseling from behavioural health officers, the Guard officer said. Notably, the California National Guard had 72 soldiers, and their enlistment was set to expire during the deployment. Out of those 72, at least two have left the guard and the other 55 have hinted that they will also not extend their work, the office of Governor Gavin Newsom said. Newsom is currently fighting against Trump's deployment in court. “The moral injuries of this operation, I think, will be enduring,” one of the two Guard officials said. “This is not what the military of our country was designed to do, at all.” However, these six soldiers are just a small fraction of the thousands of troops deployed by the Trump administration to Los Angeles. The other members have had no issue participating in the operation.

Six members of the National Guard Troops, shared they had low morale after Trump put them on Los Angeles streets during anti-immigration protests. They were concerned that the deployment in Los Angeles might affect recruitment for the state-based military force in the future.&nbsp;

Trump's fake mission? National Guard Troops speak out on Los Angeles deployment during anti-ICE protests - Here's what soldiers revealed

The US President Donald Trump administration is set to destroy nearly 500 metric tons of emergency food, which was kept for starving people around the world. The high-nutrient food has remained untouched since Trump ceased United States Agency for International Development (USAID) operations.&nbsp;The food, worth $800,000,000, has been getting ruined for months in a warehouse in Dubai, according to a former USAID official.&nbsp;The food, which will now be obliterated, could have sustained about 1.5 million children for a week. However, according to an Atlantic report, the disposal process will start soon, involving incineration, and is expected to cost an additional $130,000.&nbsp;Earlier, the agency was supposed to distribute the food to underprivileged children in regions of Africa and the Middle East.&nbsp;This comes as the US State Department is planning to lay off 1300 employees this week, as it accused the department of excessive spending and fraudulent conduct.<h2>'Government abuse'</h2>Democratic Representative Adam Smith slammed Trump for "waste and government abuse". He stressed that in the coming weeks, the food enough for a million children, will be torched at a cost of $130,000.“The Trump administration is destroying 500 metric tons of emergency food—and making US taxpayers foot the bill,” Smith said.&nbsp;“In the coming weeks, high-energy biscuits, enough to feed 1.5 million children, will be torched at a cost of $130,000. This comes after $800,000 in taxpayer funds were already spent to purchase the food. This is the very definition of waste and government abuse."&nbsp;He stressed the need to restore critical foreign aid programs that save lives, "rather than let vulnerable children starve while we burn the food that could have fed them.”<h2>'Could have been given to Gaza'</h2>A former USAID official, who spoke anonymously, said that before the Trump administration dismantles USAID, the agency's personnel would have kept a record of expiration dates of food. As the dates of expiration came nearer, they could have asked colleagues to send the food aid to those regions where it was needed.&nbsp;The food could have been sent to places that desperately needed it, like Gaza.&nbsp;The former official explained that two rations of biscuits a day is enough to stop people from dying. They made “perfect sense” in the catastrophic situation of Gaza, “because there is no clean water, there’s no way to cook, no oil, no fires,” the official told CNN.&nbsp;“It’s just heartbreaking to see with these biscuits, because they’re the perfect emergency food aid, it’s hard to see them go to waste,” the official added.&nbsp;Meanwhile, a state department spokesperson has confirmed the obliteration of food aid, since they are unable to use it before it expires. “USAID has had to destroy commodities under previous administrations with similar circumstances – this is not unique,” the spokesperson said.

The US will be destroying 500 tons of food aid, which would have been distributed to millions of starving children across Africa and Middle East, as the Trump administration has ceased USAID operations. The disposal process is expected to begin soon, which will cost another $130,000. 

The US President Donald Trump administration is set to destroy nearly 500 metric tons of emergency food, which was kept for starving people around the world. The high-nutrient food has remained untouched since Trump ceased United States Agency for International Development (USAID) operations. The food, worth $800,000,000, has been getting ruined for months in a warehouse in Dubai, according to a former USAID official. The food, which will now be obliterated, could have sustained about 1.5 million children for a week. However, according to an Atlantic report, the disposal process will start soon, involving incineration, and is expected to cost an additional $130,000. Earlier, the agency was supposed to distribute the food to underprivileged children in regions of Africa and the Middle East. This comes as the US State Department is planning to lay off 1300 employees this week, as it accused the department of excessive spending and fraudulent conduct. 'Government abuse' Democratic Representative Adam Smith slammed Trump for "waste and government abuse". He stressed that in the coming weeks, the food enough for a million children, will be torched at a cost of $130,000. “The Trump administration is destroying 500 metric tons of emergency food—and making US taxpayers foot the bill,” Smith said. “In the coming weeks, high-energy biscuits, enough to feed 1.5 million children, will be torched at a cost of $130,000. This comes after $800,000 in taxpayer funds were already spent to purchase the food. This is the very definition of waste and government abuse." He stressed the need to restore critical foreign aid programs that save lives, "rather than let vulnerable children starve while we burn the food that could have fed them.” 'Could have been given to Gaza' A former USAID official, who spoke anonymously, said that before the Trump administration dismantles USAID, the agency's personnel would have kept a record of expiration dates of food. As the dates of expiration came nearer, they could have asked colleagues to send the food aid to those regions where it was needed. The food could have been sent to places that desperately needed it, like Gaza. The former official explained that two rations of biscuits a day is enough to stop people from dying. They made “perfect sense” in the catastrophic situation of Gaza, “because there is no clean water, there’s no way to cook, no oil, no fires,” the official told CNN. “It’s just heartbreaking to see with these biscuits, because they’re the perfect emergency food aid, it’s hard to see them go to waste,” the official added. Meanwhile, a state department spokesperson has confirmed the obliteration of food aid, since they are unable to use it before it expires. “USAID has had to destroy commodities under previous administrations with similar circumstances – this is not unique,” the spokesperson said.

The US will be destroying 500 tons of food aid, which would have been distributed to millions of starving children across Africa and Middle East, as the Trump administration has ceased USAID operations. The disposal process is expected to begin soon, which will cost another $130,000.&nbsp;

US to burn food meant for 1.5mn starving children? Trump admin set to destroy 500 tons of emergency food - Here's what we know

Donald Trump’s renewed pressure on US Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has rattled both Washington and Wall Street. At the centre of the storm is a simple but unprecedented question: Can Trump fire Powell? And if he does, what happens next? While Trump has publicly downplayed the idea, calling Powell’s removal “highly unlikely, unless he has to leave for fraud”, reports of the president preparing for action have stirred markets and alarmed legal scholars.&nbsp;Let’s unpack the legal grey zones, market reactions, and the political risks of what would be a first in US history.<h2>Could Trump legally fire Jerome Powell?</h2>At the heart of the debate is Section 10 of the Federal Reserve Act, which states that members of the Fed’s Board of Governors, including the Chair “can be removed for cause”. However, the phrase “for cause” has never been tested in the Supreme Court within the context of the Federal Reserve.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to a Columbia Law School paper by Jane Manners and Lev Menand, the term typically refers to inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance in office. These standards are vague and rarely applied, and no US president has ever attempted to invoke them against a Fed chair. If Trump were to act, it would almost certainly set off a legal battle. As per Bloomberg, Powell could seek an emergency injunction from a federal court to stay in office while litigation unfolds. The case would likely reach the Supreme Court, creating a high-profile test of presidential power.<h2>What is the ‘fraud’ claim Trump is citing?</h2>Trump has pointed to the $2.5 billion renovation of the Fed’s headquarters in Washington, up from a previous estimate of $1.9 billion, as potential grounds for dismissal. The cost increases stemmed from asbestos issues, design changes, and regulatory reviews. The decision was approved by the Fed board, not Powell personally.&nbsp;Still, Trump and his allies are building a narrative. On July 10, Russell Vought, former White House budget chief, called the renovation an “ostentatious overhaul” on social media. Bill Pulte, a Trump-appointed regulator at the Federal Housing Finance Agency, accused Powell of misleading Congress, though no evidence has been presented. The Fed maintains that Powell testified accurately, and the central bank’s Inspector General has opened a probe at Powell’s own request.<h2>What happens if Powell is removed?</h2>If Trump removes Powell, Vice Chair Philip Jefferson, a Biden appointee, would serve as acting chair under existing law. A permanent replacement would require Senate confirmation, a process that could stretch for weeks or months. But replacing Powell may not deliver Trump’s intended outcome. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), which actually sets interest rates, can choose its own chair and is not legally bound to select the Fed chair.&nbsp;&nbsp;While traditionally the roles have aligned, the FOMC has 19 members (12 of whom vote), any of whom could be elected as chair. This means Trump could remove Powell but still fail to control monetary policy, particularly if Jefferson or another member continues the Fed’s cautious stance on rate cuts.<h2>What would the courts say?</h2>The Supreme Court has recently tilted in favour of broader presidential powers, particularly in Trump-related rulings. In 2024, it granted him sweeping criminal immunity and allowed contested policies to proceed. Still, the Court has treated the Fed differently. In a May 2024 decision, it referred to the central bank as a “uniquely structured, quasi-private entity”, implying that the president’s authority over it may be more limited than with other agencies.&nbsp;Boston University’s Jed Shugerman told Reuters that the current court seems to be “getting out of Trump’s way”, but others like Jonathan Shaub of the University of Kentucky caution that even if Trump’s actions are ruled illegal, the courts may hesitate to reinstate Powell, especially given recent rulings that restrict judicial reappointments of senior officials.<h2>How did markets react?</h2>The threat to Powell’s tenure triggered a swift reaction in global markets. Within 30 minutes of the Bloomberg report detailing Trump’s potential move, the S&amp;P 500 fell by 1 per cent. Yields on 30-year US Treasury bonds surged by 10 basis points, reflecting fears of long-term volatility. Meanwhile, the Bloomberg Dollar Spot Index slid by 1.2 per cent, signalling concerns about the Fed’s future policy stance.&nbsp;These moves reflect the Fed’s foundational role in market stability. Investors are deeply concerned about political interference in central banking, especially at a time when inflation remains volatile and the US economy is navigating post-COVID interest rate dynamics.<h2>Could Trump win the legal fight?</h2>It depends on how the case is framed. If Trump argues that Powell was inefficient or engaged in misconduct over the building renovation, courts would have to assess whether Powell directly authorised the overruns, whether those actions meet the legal standard for “cause”, and whether the Fed’s semi-independent status insulates him from dismissal altogether. There is no precedent. No Fed chair has ever been fired.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Supreme Court has never ruled on this issue. But with Washington’s political landscape shifting and the judiciary’s recent deference to presidential power, Trump may find a path, albeit a legally contested one. Trump’s feud with Jerome Powell is no longer just a monetary policy debate. It’s a constitutional confrontation over the limits of presidential authority, the independence of America’s central bank, and the credibility of financial governance. If Trump proceeds, the consequences will go far beyond interest rates. It would be a test of how far the US system is willing to stretch or break under pressure from a single president.<h2>Has any US president fired a Fed chair?</h2>No US president has ever fired a sitting Federal Reserve Chair. Not during war, economic crisis, or political turmoil. Even in past disagreements, such as Richard Nixon’s clash with then-Chair Arthur Burns, the White House never took legal action to remove the Fed head.&nbsp;According to legal scholars cited by Bloomberg, the Federal Reserve has long been viewed as an independent agency, buffered from direct political control. Trump’s attempt would mark a historical first and test the constitutional boundaries of executive power. &nbsp;

If Trump proceeds, it could lead to a significant legal battle, testing the limits of presidential power and the independence of the Fed. Historically, no president has dismissed a Fed chair, highlighting how unprecedented Trump actions would be. 

Donald Trump’s renewed pressure on US Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has rattled both Washington and Wall Street. At the centre of the storm is a simple but unprecedented question: Can Trump fire Powell? And if he does, what happens next? While Trump has publicly downplayed the idea, calling Powell’s removal “highly unlikely, unless he has to leave for fraud”, reports of the president preparing for action have stirred markets and alarmed legal scholars. Let’s unpack the legal grey zones, market reactions, and the political risks of what would be a first in US history. Could Trump legally fire Jerome Powell? At the heart of the debate is Section 10 of the Federal Reserve Act, which states that members of the Fed’s Board of Governors, including the Chair “can be removed for cause”. However, the phrase “for cause” has never been tested in the Supreme Court within the context of the Federal Reserve. According to a Columbia Law School paper by Jane Manners and Lev Menand, the term typically refers to inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance in office. These standards are vague and rarely applied, and no US president has ever attempted to invoke them against a Fed chair. If Trump were to act, it would almost certainly set off a legal battle. As per Bloomberg, Powell could seek an emergency injunction from a federal court to stay in office while litigation unfolds. The case would likely reach the Supreme Court, creating a high-profile test of presidential power. What is the ‘fraud’ claim Trump is citing? Trump has pointed to the $2.5 billion renovation of the Fed’s headquarters in Washington, up from a previous estimate of $1.9 billion, as potential grounds for dismissal. The cost increases stemmed from asbestos issues, design changes, and regulatory reviews. The decision was approved by the Fed board, not Powell personally. Still, Trump and his allies are building a narrative. On July 10, Russell Vought, former White House budget chief, called the renovation an “ostentatious overhaul” on social media. Bill Pulte, a Trump-appointed regulator at the Federal Housing Finance Agency, accused Powell of misleading Congress, though no evidence has been presented. The Fed maintains that Powell testified accurately, and the central bank’s Inspector General has opened a probe at Powell’s own request. What happens if Powell is removed? If Trump removes Powell, Vice Chair Philip Jefferson, a Biden appointee, would serve as acting chair under existing law. A permanent replacement would require Senate confirmation, a process that could stretch for weeks or months. But replacing Powell may not deliver Trump’s intended outcome. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), which actually sets interest rates, can choose its own chair and is not legally bound to select the Fed chair. While traditionally the roles have aligned, the FOMC has 19 members (12 of whom vote), any of whom could be elected as chair. This means Trump could remove Powell but still fail to control monetary policy, particularly if Jefferson or another member continues the Fed’s cautious stance on rate cuts. What would the courts say? The Supreme Court has recently tilted in favour of broader presidential powers, particularly in Trump-related rulings. In 2024, it granted him sweeping criminal immunity and allowed contested policies to proceed. Still, the Court has treated the Fed differently. In a May 2024 decision, it referred to the central bank as a “uniquely structured, quasi-private entity”, implying that the president’s authority over it may be more limited than with other agencies. Boston University’s Jed Shugerman told Reuters that the current court seems to be “getting out of Trump’s way”, but others like Jonathan Shaub of the University of Kentucky caution that even if Trump’s actions are ruled illegal, the courts may hesitate to reinstate Powell, especially given recent rulings that restrict judicial reappointments of senior officials. How did markets react? The threat to Powell’s tenure triggered a swift reaction in global markets. Within 30 minutes of the Bloomberg report detailing Trump’s potential move, the S&P 500 fell by 1 per cent. Yields on 30-year US Treasury bonds surged by 10 basis points, reflecting fears of long-term volatility. Meanwhile, the Bloomberg Dollar Spot Index slid by 1.2 per cent, signalling concerns about the Fed’s future policy stance. These moves reflect the Fed’s foundational role in market stability. Investors are deeply concerned about political interference in central banking, especially at a time when inflation remains volatile and the US economy is navigating post-COVID interest rate dynamics. Could Trump win the legal fight? It depends on how the case is framed. If Trump argues that Powell was inefficient or engaged in misconduct over the building renovation, courts would have to assess whether Powell directly authorised the overruns, whether those actions meet the legal standard for “cause”, and whether the Fed’s semi-independent status insulates him from dismissal altogether. There is no precedent. No Fed chair has ever been fired. The Supreme Court has never ruled on this issue. But with Washington’s political landscape shifting and the judiciary’s recent deference to presidential power, Trump may find a path, albeit a legally contested one. Trump’s feud with Jerome Powell is no longer just a monetary policy debate. It’s a constitutional confrontation over the limits of presidential authority, the independence of America’s central bank, and the credibility of financial governance. If Trump proceeds, the consequences will go far beyond interest rates. It would be a test of how far the US system is willing to stretch or break under pressure from a single president. Has any US president fired a Fed chair? No US president has ever fired a sitting Federal Reserve Chair. Not during war, economic crisis, or political turmoil. Even in past disagreements, such as Richard Nixon’s clash with then-Chair Arthur Burns, the White House never took legal action to remove the Fed head. According to legal scholars cited by Bloomberg, the Federal Reserve has long been viewed as an independent agency, buffered from direct political control. Trump’s attempt would mark a historical first and test the constitutional boundaries of executive power.

Donald Trump is exerting pressure on Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, raising questions about whether he can legally fire him. Though he had denied he won't do it, but what happens if he does?

Trump vs Powell: Can the US president fire the Fed chair?

Rumours about the health of United States President Donald Trump are floating on social media after his recent appearance at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey for the FIFA Club World Cup finals. A visibly swollen ankle and bruised hands raised concerns about his fitness. Though his medical report from April this year stated that he is fit physically, mentally and cognitively, several netizens have suspected that Trump's team may be hiding his illness.&nbsp;A mysterious bruise on his hand made headlines yet again after a C-SPAN camera caught the blemish under what looked like a layer of skin-toned makeup, per The Daily Beast report. Last month, while Trump stood in the White House War Room following a strike on Iranian nuclear sites, the same discolouration was visible in official photos. In December 2024, the POTUS told the Times that the bruise was due to some work-related injury. “It’s from shaking hands with thousands of people,” he expressed.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Swollen ankles at the World Cup Bruised hand at today’s press availability. Is the Trump administration hiding the President’s health? Where is <a href="https://twitter.com/jaketapper?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jaketapper</a>? <a href="https://t.co/SRo0bpJReK">pic.twitter.com/SRo0bpJReK</a>&mdash; Maine (@TheMaineWonk) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheMaineWonk/status/1945223464454877560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Now Trump is hiding those mysterious bruises that show up on the back of his hand. He’s caked on the concealer which makes it more noticeable <a href="https://t.co/CNW84JT2ne">pic.twitter.com/CNW84JT2ne</a>&mdash; katherine ✌🏻❤️🎸🌎🧚🌺🌼💔🆒 (@katherineOma) <a href="https://twitter.com/katherineOma/status/1945554422173765843?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

However, doctors who weighed in on the matter said that swollen ankles could mean a dangerous disease, too. Dr Jeff Foster, Medical Director of Manual, told ReachPlc what Trump’s swollen ankles could mean. "Ankle swelling can be due to a range of factors: anything from standing up for too long in the hot weather, to heart or liver problems,” he said. "The big one we worry about is heart failure which is a condition where the heart cannot pump the blood around the body fast enough which results in fluid pooling in the feet and ankles.” &nbsp;Many have also pointed out that Trump seems to have lost weight. In a conversation with the Irish Star,&nbsp;Dr Daniel Atkinson explained, "A person who's almost 80 with a busy schedule might be more at risk of certain conditions that can cause weight loss.”

<h3>Rumours about POTUS' health</h3>An X user shared photos of Trump's hand and ankles and pointed out that it was swollen. “Swollen ankles at the World Cup. Bruised hand at today’s press availability. Is the Trump administration hiding the President’s health?” the X user said. Another X user commented on the sitting posture of the POTUS, "He walks slumped over and sits in a way that looks like he is compensating for some breathing difficulty." Another user added, "He also looks like he has some skin health issues that should be looked into." A user said, “Yup I saw the ankles, and that can be a sign of cardiac or BP sometimes, chemo treatments, some medication too. I bet Trump falsified his health report. Well, obviously did where he said he was 224 lbs, and clearly that is not accurate just by looking at him.”<h2>Donald Trump's health report&nbsp;</h2>In April this year, the White House released a report by its physician stating Trump is in "excellent cognitive and physical health." In the first annual physical of his second presidential term, Trump was also found to have scarring "on the right ear from a gunshot wound", after an assassination attempt last July. "President Trump remains in excellent health, exhibiting robust cardiac, pulmonary, neurological, and general physical function," his doctor, Captain Sean Barbabella, said in a memo. At 78, Trump is the oldest president to take office.

A visibly swollen ankle and bruised hands raised concerns about the fitness of United States President Donald Trump. While some said that the blemish might be skin-toned makeup, others pointed to a possible health worry

Rumours about the health of United States President Donald Trump are floating on social media after his recent appearance at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey for the FIFA Club World Cup finals. A visibly swollen ankle and bruised hands raised concerns about his fitness. Though his medical report from April this year stated that he is fit physically, mentally and cognitively, several netizens have suspected that Trump's team may be hiding his illness. A mysterious bruise on his hand made headlines yet again after a C-SPAN camera caught the blemish under what looked like a layer of skin-toned makeup, per The Daily Beast report. Last month, while Trump stood in the White House War Room following a strike on Iranian nuclear sites, the same discolouration was visible in official photos. In December 2024, the POTUS told the Times that the bruise was due to some work-related injury. “It’s from shaking hands with thousands of people,” he expressed.

Visibly swollen ankles and bruised hands raised concerns about the fitness of United States President Donald Trump. While some said that the blemish might be skin-toned makeup, others pointed to a possible health worry

Skin-toned makeup or health issue? Trump's swollen ankles, bruised hands pave way for rumours - Here's what doctors said

US President Donald Trump has suggested that a trade agreement with India could be on the horizon, saying “another deal is coming… maybe,” according to a Reuters report. Speaking about trade negotiations, Trump said, “We have some pretty good deals to announce.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-won-t-rule-out-firing-lousy-jerome-powell-can-us-president-even-fire-federal-reserve-chair-1752684726290">Trump ‘won’t rule out’ firing ‘lousy’ Jerome Powell - Can US president even fire Federal&nbsp;Reserve&nbsp;chair?</a><h2>India pushes back on any rushed deal</h2>The comment comes as a delegation from India’s commerce ministry is in Washington, DC for another round of trade talks. However, Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has made it clear that New Delhi will not be rushed. “India does not enter into any trade agreement based on deadlines and will accept the proposed trade deal with the US only when it is fully finalised, properly concluded, and in the national interest,” Goyal told PTI earlier this month.<h2>What does the US want from India?</h2>The US is pushing for greater access to the Indian market, particularly for American agricultural and dairy products. Trump drew a comparison to Indonesia, where he recently signed a deal allowing American firms full trade access. “Indonesia was great. He [President Prabowo Subianto] is a great president and we made a terrific deal,” Trump said. “I think something similar will happen, I would say, with India,” he added.<h2>What is Trump's deal with Indonesia?</h2>Under the new agreement, Indonesian goods would face a 19% tariff when exported to the US, while US exports to Jakarta would face no tariffs, an asymmetric arrangement favouring American companies. Indonesia initially received a tariff letter stating that the country’s goods would face a 32% tariff starting on August 1 if an agreement was not reached.<h2>India seeks tariff relief on metals and autos</h2>While India is keen to avoid US-imposed tariffs, officials have said they won’t compromise core interests. New Delhi is particularly seeking relief from the 26% additional tariff on various goods, as well as steep duties on steel, aluminium (50%), and automobiles (25%). India has also remained firm on its stance regarding dairy imports, refusing to offer duty concessions in that sector under any free trade agreement to date.It is worth noting that India was not among the 14 countries, including Japan, South Korea, Bangladesh and Myanmar, that received Trump’s latest wave of letters threatening tariff action.

The US is pushing for greater access to the Indian market, particularly for American agricultural and dairy products. Trump drew a comparison to Indonesia, where he recently signed a deal allowing American firms full trade access. 

US President Donald Trump has suggested that a trade agreement with India could be on the horizon, saying “another deal is coming… maybe,” according to a Reuters report. Speaking about trade negotiations, Trump said, “We have some pretty good deals to announce.” Also read: Trump ‘won’t rule out’ firing ‘lousy’ Jerome Powell - Can US president even fire Federal Reserve chair? India pushes back on any rushed deal The comment comes as a delegation from India’s commerce ministry is in Washington, DC for another round of trade talks. However, Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has made it clear that New Delhi will not be rushed. “India does not enter into any trade agreement based on deadlines and will accept the proposed trade deal with the US only when it is fully finalised, properly concluded, and in the national interest,” Goyal told PTI earlier this month. What does the US want from India? The US is pushing for greater access to the Indian market, particularly for American agricultural and dairy products. Trump drew a comparison to Indonesia, where he recently signed a deal allowing American firms full trade access. “Indonesia was great. He [President Prabowo Subianto] is a great president and we made a terrific deal,” Trump said. “I think something similar will happen, I would say, with India,” he added. What is Trump's deal with Indonesia? Under the new agreement, Indonesian goods would face a 19% tariff when exported to the US, while US exports to Jakarta would face no tariffs, an asymmetric arrangement favouring American companies. Indonesia initially received a tariff letter stating that the country’s goods would face a 32% tariff starting on August 1 if an agreement was not reached. India seeks tariff relief on metals and autos While India is keen to avoid US-imposed tariffs, officials have said they won’t compromise core interests. New Delhi is particularly seeking relief from the 26% additional tariff on various goods, as well as steep duties on steel, aluminium (50%), and automobiles (25%). India has also remained firm on its stance regarding dairy imports, refusing to offer duty concessions in that sector under any free trade agreement to date. It is worth noting that India was not among the 14 countries, including Japan, South Korea, Bangladesh and Myanmar, that received Trump’s latest wave of letters threatening tariff action.

The US is pushing for greater access to the Indian market, particularly for American agricultural and dairy products. Trump drew a comparison to Indonesia, where he recently signed a deal allowing American firms full trade access.&nbsp;

US-India trade deal in sight? Trump says deal could happen ‘soon’, hints it may resemble Indonesia agreement - All you need to know

US President Donald Trump has dismissed reports claiming he planned to fire Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. Several outlets, including Bloomberg and The New York Times, had reported that Trump drafted a letter to dismiss Powell and asked Republican allies for advice on whether to send it. When asked by reporters about the letter, Trump denied it existed. However, he admitted he had discussed the idea with Republicans. “Almost every one of them said I should, but I’m more conservative than they are,” Trump said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-dan-bongino-fbi-deputy-trump-is-very-angry-with-over-epstein-files-backlash-and-maga-infighting-1752663890882">Who is Dan Bongino? FBI deputy chief Trump is 'very angry' with over Epstein files backlash and MAGA infighting</a><h2>Trump remains critical of Powell’s decisions</h2>Although he said he was unlikely to remove Powell, Trump added, “I don’t rule out anything but I think it’s highly unlikely unless he has to leave for fraud.” He repeated his long-standing criticism of the Fed chair, “He’s always been too late, hence his nickname ‘Too Late’. He should’ve cut interest rates a long time ago.” Trump claimed Powell only reduced rates to help Democrats in the 2024 election, adding, “He’s doing a lousy job but no, I’m not talking about that.”<h2>Trump hints at replacing Powell after term ends</h2>Trump appeared to shift his tone later, indicating that he might wait until Powell’s term ends in May 2026. “Instead of firing Powell, I’ll get to make a change in eight months,” he said. It is important to note, Powell was first appointed Fed chair by Trump in 2017. Biden later extended his term during his presidency.<h2>Fact check: Can Trump even fire Powell?</h2>While Trump has frequently called for Powell to resign, it is not clear whether a US president can remove a Federal Reserve chair over policy disagreements. Under federal law, a Fed chair can only be dismissed “for cause”. Recently, the Supreme Court also ruled that the president does not have the authority to fire central bank officials at will, especially over disputes about monetary policy.The Trump administration has stepped up pressure on Powell in recent months. Some officials accused the Fed of mishandling a costly renovation of its headquarters in Washington, an allegation Powell has firmly denied. In defence of the Fed’s decisions, Powell has said interest rates would have been lowered earlier if not for Trump’s unpredictable tariff policies, adding that the central bank acts independently of political influence.

US President Donald Trump has been vocal in his criticism of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell over US monetary policy. Trump thinks the Fed should cut interest rates, but Powell says it is not possible because of the US president's tariff policy

US President Donald Trump has dismissed reports claiming he planned to fire Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. Several outlets, including Bloomberg and The New York Times, had reported that Trump drafted a letter to dismiss Powell and asked Republican allies for advice on whether to send it. When asked by reporters about the letter, Trump denied it existed. However, he admitted he had discussed the idea with Republicans. “Almost every one of them said I should, but I’m more conservative than they are,” Trump said. Also read: Who is Dan Bongino? FBI deputy chief Trump is 'very angry' with over Epstein files backlash and MAGA infighting Trump remains critical of Powell’s decisions Although he said he was unlikely to remove Powell, Trump added, “I don’t rule out anything but I think it’s highly unlikely unless he has to leave for fraud.” He repeated his long-standing criticism of the Fed chair, “He’s always been too late, hence his nickname ‘Too Late’. He should’ve cut interest rates a long time ago.” Trump claimed Powell only reduced rates to help Democrats in the 2024 election, adding, “He’s doing a lousy job but no, I’m not talking about that.” Trump hints at replacing Powell after term ends Trump appeared to shift his tone later, indicating that he might wait until Powell’s term ends in May 2026. “Instead of firing Powell, I’ll get to make a change in eight months,” he said. It is important to note, Powell was first appointed Fed chair by Trump in 2017. Biden later extended his term during his presidency. Fact check: Can Trump even fire Powell? While Trump has frequently called for Powell to resign, it is not clear whether a US president can remove a Federal Reserve chair over policy disagreements. Under federal law, a Fed chair can only be dismissed “for cause”. Recently, the Supreme Court also ruled that the president does not have the authority to fire central bank officials at will, especially over disputes about monetary policy. The Trump administration has stepped up pressure on Powell in recent months. Some officials accused the Fed of mishandling a costly renovation of its headquarters in Washington, an allegation Powell has firmly denied. In defence of the Fed’s decisions, Powell has said interest rates would have been lowered earlier if not for Trump’s unpredictable tariff policies, adding that the central bank acts independently of political influence.

US President Donald Trump has been vocal in his criticism of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell over US monetary policy. Trump thinks the Fed should cut interest rates, but Powell says it is not possible because of the US president's tariff policy

Trump ‘won’t rule out’ firing ‘lousy’ Jerome Powell - Can US president even fire Federal Reserve chair?

US President Donald Trump entered his second term with a powerful economic weapon: tariffs. Despite delays and repeated threats that earned him the nickname “TACO” (Trump Always Chickens Out), the policy has brought in nearly $50bn in extra customs revenues and left most trading partners on the back foot and in fear of striking back.<h2>US customs revenue hits record high</h2>According to figures released by the US Treasury, the United States collected $64bn in customs duties during the second quarter of 2025, a $47bn increase from the same period last year. This follows four months of heightened tariffs imposed under Trump’s economic agenda. While the trade war Trump initiated has faced threats of retaliation, only two countries, China and Canada, have retaliated so far.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-can-t-let-russia-lose-china-backs-russia-after-trump-s-50-day-ultimatum-over-ukraine-war-xi-says-trust-with-moscow-has-deepened-1752587881335">‘Can’t let Russia lose’: China backs Russia after Trump’s 50-day ULTIMATUM over Ukraine war; Xi says trust with Moscow has 'deepened'</a><h2>Why are most countries holding back against in Trump's trade war?</h2>As per economists, the reason for limited retaliation is that the US remains the centre of the global trade system. Trump’s threats of even higher tariffs and potential damage to trade relationships have left many nations opting to negotiate rather than retaliate. The European Union, for instance, has delayed counter-tariffs multiple times, instead linking their response to an August 1 deadline for talks. Even Canada, despite initial pushback, has scaled back its retaliatory approach. Mexico, the US’s biggest trading partner, declined to retaliate entirely, with President Claudia Sheinbaum saying she wants negotiation over confrontation.<h2>Trump’s tariffs and the global supply chain</h2>Although US tariffs are now at levels not seen since the 1930s, they have not triggered a global trade collapse. Supply chain analysts note that international companies are spreading costs globally to shield the US market from the full burden of rising prices. Trump’s approach appears calculated, applying pressure, then offering deals, often individually. This strategy has faced limited resistance and allowed the US to maintain leverage.<h2>China and Canada step back; EU treads carefully</h2>In April, China matched Trump’s tariffs with retaliatory measures. But when Chinese exports to the US fell by a third in May, both sides stepped back and agreed to a 90-day pause. Tariffs were scaled back from 145% to 30%. Canada, meanwhile, imposed C$155bn in retaliatory duties earlier this year but has since softened its stance. Despite election promises to confront Trump, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney dropped a digital tax and refused to match recent US tariff hikes on steel. With 20% of Canada’s GDP tied to US trade, compared to just 2% for the US, the economic pressure on Canada is higher.When the European Commission published a list of potential countermeasures targeting €72bn worth of US goods, it stopped short of assigning tariff rates. Officials hoped this move would avoid provoking Trump while leaving space for compromise. EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič warned that a 30% tariff on European exports would make transatlantic trade “almost impossible” and hinted at possible joint responses with other nations. Still, Brussels has largely chosen caution over confrontation.

Despite doubts, US President Donald Trump is apparently winning the trade war he started four months back. As his August 1 tariff deadline looms, the US has already raked in 50 billion in extra customs revenues.

US President Donald Trump entered his second term with a powerful economic weapon: tariffs. Despite delays and repeated threats that earned him the nickname “TACO” (Trump Always Chickens Out), the policy has brought in nearly $50bn in extra customs revenues and left most trading partners on the back foot and in fear of striking back. US customs revenue hits record high According to figures released by the US Treasury, the United States collected $64bn in customs duties during the second quarter of 2025, a $47bn increase from the same period last year. This follows four months of heightened tariffs imposed under Trump’s economic agenda. While the trade war Trump initiated has faced threats of retaliation, only two countries, China and Canada, have retaliated so far. Also read: ‘Can’t let Russia lose’: China backs Russia after Trump’s 50-day ULTIMATUM over Ukraine war; Xi says trust with Moscow has 'deepened' Why are most countries holding back against in Trump's trade war? As per economists, the reason for limited retaliation is that the US remains the centre of the global trade system. Trump’s threats of even higher tariffs and potential damage to trade relationships have left many nations opting to negotiate rather than retaliate. The European Union, for instance, has delayed counter-tariffs multiple times, instead linking their response to an August 1 deadline for talks. Even Canada, despite initial pushback, has scaled back its retaliatory approach. Mexico, the US’s biggest trading partner, declined to retaliate entirely, with President Claudia Sheinbaum saying she wants negotiation over confrontation. Trump’s tariffs and the global supply chain Although US tariffs are now at levels not seen since the 1930s, they have not triggered a global trade collapse. Supply chain analysts note that international companies are spreading costs globally to shield the US market from the full burden of rising prices. Trump’s approach appears calculated, applying pressure, then offering deals, often individually. This strategy has faced limited resistance and allowed the US to maintain leverage. China and Canada step back; EU treads carefully In April, China matched Trump’s tariffs with retaliatory measures. But when Chinese exports to the US fell by a third in May, both sides stepped back and agreed to a 90-day pause. Tariffs were scaled back from 145% to 30%. Canada, meanwhile, imposed C$155bn in retaliatory duties earlier this year but has since softened its stance. Despite election promises to confront Trump, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney dropped a digital tax and refused to match recent US tariff hikes on steel. With 20% of Canada’s GDP tied to US trade, compared to just 2% for the US, the economic pressure on Canada is higher. When the European Commission published a list of potential countermeasures targeting €72bn worth of US goods, it stopped short of assigning tariff rates. Officials hoped this move would avoid provoking Trump while leaving space for compromise. EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič warned that a 30% tariff on European exports would make transatlantic trade “almost impossible” and hinted at possible joint responses with other nations. Still, Brussels has largely chosen caution over confrontation.

Despite doubts, US President Donald Trump is apparently winning the trade war he started four months back. As his August 1 tariff deadline looms, the US has already raked in 50 billion in extra customs revenues.

‘Trump Always Chickens Out’? Not really: US president is winning this trade war - Here’s how US raked in $50 BILLION as world backed down

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (July 16) said that Attorney General Pam Bondi should release "whatever she thinks is credible" on Jeffrey Epstein. These comments come amid an ongoing MAGA civil war, which started after Trump's FBI and DOJ released a memo saying that Epstein killed himself and no "client list" existed. While Attorney General Bondi has come under scrutiny for fueling false hopes in Trump's supporters, another name has been making the rounds, and that is FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-sounds-like-you-re-in-the-list-maga-turns-on-trump-s-fbi-chief-kash-patel-over-epstein-files-1752425713913">‘Sounds like you’re in the list’: MAGA turns on Trump's FBI chief Kash Patel over Epstein files</a>Bongino, a former right-wing media personality, is at the centre of a political storm that’s causing deep cracks within Donald Trump’s inner circle. According to CNN, Trump has been “very angry” with Bongino behind the scenes, and tensions are now threatening to split the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement.Bongino is reportedly considering resigning after a heated clash over the fallout from a Department of Justice memo on Jeffrey Epstein, which has disappointed many of Trump’s supporters.<h2>‘Out of control furious’ after Bondi clash</h2>The tipping point came last week during a heated meeting with Trump’s attorney general, Pam Bondi. Sources told CNN Bongino left the meeting “out of control furious”. Also present were White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, her deputy Taylor Budowich, and FBI Director Kash Patel. JD Vance, the vice president, reportedly spent the weekend trying to mediate the feud. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Trump Backtracks From Suggestion Ukraine Should ‘Target Moscow’https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-trump-backtracks-from-suggestion-ukraine-should-target-moscow-1752663541173/embedBondi and Bongino had both previously given way to MAGA theories by hinting at a hidden Epstein client list. Bondi even told Fox News that it was “sitting on my desk right now.” But those claims collapsed when a DOJ memo concluded Epstein had taken his own life, and no such client list existed.<h2>Who is Dan Bongino?</h2>A former NYPD officer and Secret Service agent, he rose to fame as a Fox News host and vocal critic of what he called the “deep state”. He frequently pushed conspiracy theories, including claims that Epstein was murdered and that the 2020 election was rigged. His appointment as FBI deputy director in February was the first time in the agency’s 117-year history that the post was given to someone without prior FBI experience.<h2>MAGA civil war over Epstein files</h2>The Epstein memo fallout has now turned into a full-blown internal battle. Trump has publicly backed Bondi, who has faced criticism over her handling of the case. Despite being angry with Bongino privately, Trump tried to downplay the rift, telling reporters, “He’s a very good guy… I think he’s in good shape.”

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino, a former right-wing media personality, has found himself at the centre of MAGA backlash over Epstein files. He is reportedly considering resigning after a heated clash with Attorney General Pam Bondi.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (July 16) said that Attorney General Pam Bondi should release "whatever she thinks is credible" on Jeffrey Epstein. These comments come amid an ongoing MAGA civil war, which started after Trump's FBI and DOJ released a memo saying that Epstein killed himself and no "client list" existed. While Attorney General Bondi has come under scrutiny for fueling false hopes in Trump's supporters, another name has been making the rounds, and that is FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino. Also read: ‘Sounds like you’re in the list’: MAGA turns on Trump's FBI chief Kash Patel over Epstein files Bongino, a former right-wing media personality, is at the centre of a political storm that’s causing deep cracks within Donald Trump’s inner circle. According to CNN, Trump has been “very angry” with Bongino behind the scenes, and tensions are now threatening to split the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement. Bongino is reportedly considering resigning after a heated clash over the fallout from a Department of Justice memo on Jeffrey Epstein, which has disappointed many of Trump’s supporters. ‘Out of control furious’ after Bondi clash The tipping point came last week during a heated meeting with Trump’s attorney general, Pam Bondi. Sources told CNN Bongino left the meeting “out of control furious”. Also present were White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, her deputy Taylor Budowich, and FBI Director Kash Patel. JD Vance, the vice president, reportedly spent the weekend trying to mediate the feud. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Trump Backtracks From Suggestion Ukraine Should ‘Target Moscow’ https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-trump-backtracks-from-suggestion-ukraine-should-target-moscow-1752663541173/embed Bondi and Bongino had both previously given way to MAGA theories by hinting at a hidden Epstein client list. Bondi even told Fox News that it was “sitting on my desk right now.” But those claims collapsed when a DOJ memo concluded Epstein had taken his own life, and no such client list existed. Who is Dan Bongino? A former NYPD officer and Secret Service agent, he rose to fame as a Fox News host and vocal critic of what he called the “deep state”. He frequently pushed conspiracy theories, including claims that Epstein was murdered and that the 2020 election was rigged. His appointment as FBI deputy director in February was the first time in the agency’s 117-year history that the post was given to someone without prior FBI experience. MAGA civil war over Epstein files The Epstein memo fallout has now turned into a full-blown internal battle. Trump has publicly backed Bondi, who has faced criticism over her handling of the case. Despite being angry with Bongino privately, Trump tried to downplay the rift, telling reporters, “He’s a very good guy… I think he’s in good shape.”

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino, a former right-wing media personality, has found himself at the centre of MAGA backlash over Epstein files. He is reportedly considering resigning after a heated clash with Attorney General Pam Bondi.

Who is Dan Bongino? FBI deputy chief Trump is 'very angry' with over Epstein files backlash and MAGA infighting

As United States President Donald Trump attended the FIFA Club World Cup, conspiracy theories went wild regarding his health. Several images that are doing rounds on social media show Trump's swollen fingers and marks on his right hand, sparking fears that all might not be well with the POTUS. Last month, Fred Trump III, nephew of the US president, pointed to a family history of dementia while voicing concerns about his uncle’s mental fitness.

An X user shared photos of Trump's hand and ankles and pointed out that it was swollen. “Swollen ankles at the World Cup. Bruised hand at today’s press availability. Is the Trump administration hiding the President’s health?” the X user said. Another X user commented on the sitting posture of the POTUS, "He walks slumped over and sits in a way that looks like he is compensating for some breathing difficulty." Another user added, "He also looks like he has some skin health issues that should be looked into." A user said, “Yup I saw the ankles, and that can be a sign of cardiac or BP sometimes, chemo treatments, some medication too. I bet Trump falsified his health report. Well, obviously did where he said he was 224 lbs, and clearly that is not accurate just by looking at him.”

&nbsp;In April this year, the White House released a report by its physician stating Trump is in "excellent cognitive and physical health." In the first annual physical of his second presidential term, Trump was also found to have scarring "on the right ear from a gunshot wound", after an assassination attempt last July. "President Trump remains in excellent health, exhibiting robust cardiac, pulmonary, neurological, and general physical function," his doctor, Captain Sean Barbabella, said in a memo. At 78, Trump is the oldest president to take office.<h2>Donald Trump at the FIFA Club World Cup</h2>Trump experienced the agony and the ecstasy of football on Sunday (July 13) as he was booed at the final of the FIFA Club World Cup — even as he joined in some high-spirited celebrations with champions Chelsea. The scorn did little to dampen the president's spirits as he handed out trophies to the star players, including the Golden Ball for best player to Cole Palmer, followed by handshakes and medals to the defeated Paris Saint-Germain. He later called the crowd "tremendous." "We had a great time," he told reporters as he landed at Joint Base Andrews outside the US capital, Washington, after the match.

United States President Donald Trump attended the FIFA Club World Cup on Sunday. However, his photos from the event have sparked rumours about his health as at 78, he is the oldest president to take office. This comes despite his April health report stating that he is fit

As United States President Donald Trump attended the FIFA Club World Cup, conspiracy theories went wild regarding his health. Several images that are doing rounds on social media show Trump's swollen fingers and marks on his right hand, sparking fears that all might not be well with the POTUS. Last month, Fred Trump III, nephew of the US president, pointed to a family history of dementia while voicing concerns about his uncle’s mental fitness.

United States President Donald Trump attended the FIFA Club World Cup on Sunday (July 13). However, his photos from the event have sparked rumours about his health as at 78, he is the oldest president to take office. This comes despite his April health report stating that he is fit

'Swollen fingers, bruised hand, marks on ankles': Trump's photos from FIFA sparks rumours about his health - Here's the truth

Donald Trump, who has been facing an unexpected political revolt from his right-wing MAGA base, on Tuesday said the Justice Department should release all "credible" information related to the Jeffrey Epstein case. Calling the case “sordid, but it's boring,” he said, “I don't understand why it keeps going. I think, really, only pretty bad people, including 'fake news', want to keep something like that going." He said this as he attempted to defuse mounting criticism over what his supporters call a "cover-up" by his administration. When asked about the case at the White House, Trump once again defended Attorney General Pam Bondi, who has been facing the brunt of criticism, and said, "The attorney general has handled that very well", and said that "Whatever she thinks is credible, she should release".<h2>Credible info to be released?</h2>Amid what could be the worst firestorm of his political career, as Trump faces suspicions from his famously loyal right-wing base, he once again repeated claims that the Epstein files were made up by his Democratic predecessors. This, despite the fact that during his election campaign, he mentioned the files multiple times and even stated that he would "probably" release them. "She's handled it very well, and it's going to be up to her," Trump said, adding, "Whatever she thinks is credible, she should release."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-investigate-the-investigators-jeffrey-epstein-spied-on-fbi-agents-reveals-shocking-new-report-details-here-1752547282428">'Investigate the investigators': Jeffrey Epstein spied on FBI agents, reveals shocking new report. Details here</a>The US president's comments came as frustration grows among MAGA influencers, elected Republicans, and even Trump's own family over the Justice Department's refusal to release Epstein-related documents, including an alleged "client list" implicating high-profile individuals. Bondi previously told Fox News that a list of Epstein clients was on her desk for review. Weeks later, she walked back the statement, claiming no such list existed.The Department of Justice and the FBI have publicly denied the existence of a "client list" and reaffirmed that Epstein’s 2019 death in a New York prison was by suicide, not murder. But the administration's refusal to share more documents has further fuelled suspicion."I don't understand why the Jeffrey Epstein case would be of interest to anybody," he told reporters on Tuesday night, adding, "It's pretty boring stuff." This marks a softening of his stance on the Jeffrey Epstein files. Previously, he had sought to defend Bondi and, in the process, had scolded MAGA supporters on Truth Social, asking them to let the attorney general do her job.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-tries-to-calm-uproar-over-epstein-probe-1752480889991/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-tries-to-calm-uproar-over-epstein-probe-1752480889991/embed</a>&nbsp;

When asked about the case at the White House, Trump once again defended Attorney General Pam Bondi, who has been facing the brunt of criticism, and said, "The attorney general has handled that very well", and said that "Whatever she thinks is credible, she should release".

Donald Trump, who has been facing an unexpected political revolt from his right-wing MAGA base, on Tuesday said the Justice Department should release all "credible" information related to the Jeffrey Epstein case. Calling the case “sordid, but it's boring,” he said, “I don't understand why it keeps going. I think, really, only pretty bad people, including 'fake news', want to keep something like that going." He said this as he attempted to defuse mounting criticism over what his supporters call a "cover-up" by his administration. When asked about the case at the White House, Trump once again defended Attorney General Pam Bondi, who has been facing the brunt of criticism, and said, "The attorney general has handled that very well", and said that "Whatever she thinks is credible, she should release". Credible info to be released? Amid what could be the worst firestorm of his political career, as Trump faces suspicions from his famously loyal right-wing base, he once again repeated claims that the Epstein files were made up by his Democratic predecessors. This, despite the fact that during his election campaign, he mentioned the files multiple times and even stated that he would "probably" release them. "She's handled it very well, and it's going to be up to her," Trump said, adding, "Whatever she thinks is credible, she should release." Also read | 'Investigate the investigators': Jeffrey Epstein spied on FBI agents, reveals shocking new report. Details here The US president's comments came as frustration grows among MAGA influencers, elected Republicans, and even Trump's own family over the Justice Department's refusal to release Epstein-related documents, including an alleged "client list" implicating high-profile individuals. Bondi previously told Fox News that a list of Epstein clients was on her desk for review. Weeks later, she walked back the statement, claiming no such list existed. The Department of Justice and the FBI have publicly denied the existence of a "client list" and reaffirmed that Epstein’s 2019 death in a New York prison was by suicide, not murder. But the administration's refusal to share more documents has further fuelled suspicion. "I don't understand why the Jeffrey Epstein case would be of interest to anybody," he told reporters on Tuesday night, adding, "It's pretty boring stuff." This marks a softening of his stance on the Jeffrey Epstein files. Previously, he had sought to defend Bondi and, in the process, had scolded MAGA supporters on Truth Social, asking them to let the attorney general do her job. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-tries-to-calm-uproar-over-epstein-probe-1752480889991/embed

When asked about the case at the White House, Trump once again defended Attorney General Pam Bondi, who has been facing the brunt of criticism, and said, "The attorney general has handled that very well", and said that "Whatever she thinks is credible, she should release".

'Release what’s credible': Trump once vowed to release Epstein files—now says they’re 'boring stuff'

The Trump administration has ordered immigration officers to detain undocumented immigrants without offering them the chance to apply for bond during deportation proceedings, the Washington Post reported. In a memo reviewed by the Post on 8 July, Todd M. Lyons, the acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), said that immigrants who entered the country illegally must now be detained “for the duration of their removal proceedings”, a process that can take months or even years. This decision could affect millions of people who entered the US illegally in recent decades, including during President Biden’s term.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-wildly-out-of-context-white-house-says-trump-was-not-encouraging-further-killing-after-reports-claim-he-wanted-zelensky-to-strike-moscow-1752595112142">'Wildly out of context': White House says Trump 'was not encouraging further killing' after reports claim he wanted Zelensky to ‘strike Moscow’</a><h2>Immigration judges removed from decision-making process</h2>Previously, undocumented immigrants living within the US were allowed to request bond hearings before immigration judges. However, Lyons stated in the memo that the Departments of Homeland Security and Justice had reviewed the legal framework and concluded that such individuals “may not be released from ICE custody.”In rare cases, release on parole may still be granted, but that decision will lie with immigration officers, not judges. The policy relies on a section of immigration law that mandates detention after arrest, a rule that has historically applied only to recent border crossers, not long-term residents.<h2>Congress allocates $45 billion for expanded detention</h2>This major shift in immigration enforcement comes just after Congress approved a $45 billion budget to increase the U.S.’s detention capacity over the next four years. With the new funds, ICE is expected to double the number of immigrants it can detain daily, up to 100,000 people.Already, reports have emerged of immigrants being denied bond hearings in over a dozen courts across states such as New York, Virginia, North Carolina, Oregon, Ohio and Georgia, according to the American Immigration Lawyers Association.Though ICE claims in its 2024 annual report that most of the 7.6 million immigrants on its docket are released while their cases are processed, the scale of the new policy could change that drastically.<h2>Lawyers say long-term residents now targeted</h2>Under current law, immigrants convicted of serious crimes like murder are already held without bond. Recently, theft-related crimes were added to that list after the killing of Laken Riley, a nursing student in Georgia, by a Venezuelan man previously arrested for shoplifting. Now, immigration lawyers say the Trump administration is expanding detention rules originally meant for recent arrivals to include long-time US residents, many of whom have American children and legal arguments against deportation.Detaining them in remote centres, such as swamps in Florida or desert areas in Arizona, could limit their access to family, lawyers and the resources needed to fight their cases. Many will be unable to work or build legal defences.Currently, ICE is detaining around 56,000 immigrants each day and has reopened family detention centres that were previously closed under the Biden administration due to safety concerns. Officers are reportedly working overtime to meet Trump’s target of deporting one million people in his first year back in office.

Earlier,  undocumented immigrants living within the US were allowed to request bond hearings before immigration judges, but as per the memo, now such individuals will not be released from the ICE custody.

The Trump administration has ordered immigration officers to detain undocumented immigrants without offering them the chance to apply for bond during deportation proceedings, the Washington Post reported. In a memo reviewed by the Post on 8 July, Todd M. Lyons, the acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), said that immigrants who entered the country illegally must now be detained “for the duration of their removal proceedings”, a process that can take months or even years. This decision could affect millions of people who entered the US illegally in recent decades, including during President Biden’s term. Also read: 'Wildly out of context': White House says Trump 'was not encouraging further killing' after reports claim he wanted Zelensky to ‘strike Moscow’ Immigration judges removed from decision-making process Previously, undocumented immigrants living within the US were allowed to request bond hearings before immigration judges. However, Lyons stated in the memo that the Departments of Homeland Security and Justice had reviewed the legal framework and concluded that such individuals “may not be released from ICE custody.” In rare cases, release on parole may still be granted, but that decision will lie with immigration officers, not judges. The policy relies on a section of immigration law that mandates detention after arrest, a rule that has historically applied only to recent border crossers, not long-term residents. Congress allocates $45 billion for expanded detention This major shift in immigration enforcement comes just after Congress approved a $45 billion budget to increase the U.S.’s detention capacity over the next four years. With the new funds, ICE is expected to double the number of immigrants it can detain daily, up to 100,000 people. Already, reports have emerged of immigrants being denied bond hearings in over a dozen courts across states such as New York, Virginia, North Carolina, Oregon, Ohio and Georgia, according to the American Immigration Lawyers Association. Though ICE claims in its 2024 annual report that most of the 7.6 million immigrants on its docket are released while their cases are processed, the scale of the new policy could change that drastically. Lawyers say long-term residents now targeted Under current law, immigrants convicted of serious crimes like murder are already held without bond. Recently, theft-related crimes were added to that list after the killing of Laken Riley, a nursing student in Georgia, by a Venezuelan man previously arrested for shoplifting. Now, immigration lawyers say the Trump administration is expanding detention rules originally meant for recent arrivals to include long-time US residents, many of whom have American children and legal arguments against deportation. Detaining them in remote centres, such as swamps in Florida or desert areas in Arizona, could limit their access to family, lawyers and the resources needed to fight their cases. Many will be unable to work or build legal defences. Currently, ICE is detaining around 56,000 immigrants each day and has reopened family detention centres that were previously closed under the Biden administration due to safety concerns. Officers are reportedly working overtime to meet Trump’s target of deporting one million people in his first year back in office.

Earlier, undocumented immigrants living within the US were allowed to request bond hearings before immigration judges, but as per the memo, now such individuals will not be released from ICE custody.

Millions could be jailed for years as new Trump rule targets longtime undocumented residents - What does that mean?

Even after US President Donald Trump's continuous warnings and ultimatum, Russian President Vladimir Putin is unfazed and intends to continue the war in Ukraine, according to three Kremlin sources, Reuters reported. Infact, Putin is not afraid of Trump's tariff threats or Western sanctions.Speaking on condition of anonymity, the Kremlin source said that Putin will continue the war until he gets what he wants, adding that his territorial demands may widen as Russian forces advance.The sources said that Russia's economy and its military is capable and strong enough to weather any additional Western measures, Reuters reported.The sources, familiar with top-level Kremlin thinking, said that the Russian president will not stop the war under pressure from the West, considering that Russia, which has survived the toughest sanctions, can also survive further economic hardship by the West, including Trump's tariff threats.Meanwhile, two of the sources said that Russia has the upper hand on the battlefield and its economy."Putin thinks no one has seriously engaged with him on the details of peace in Ukraine - including the Americans - so he will continue until he gets what he wants," one of the sources told Reuters.Trump and Putin have been holding phone calls, to discuss a ceasefire as the US president has been trying hard to end the long-standing war between Russia and Ukraine.Noting Putin and Trump's friendship, source further said, "Putin values the relationship with Trump and had good discussions with Witkoff, but the interests of Russia come above all else."Earlier on Monday, Trump expressed frustration with Putin's refusal to agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine. The US president announced a wave of weapons supplied to Ukraine, including Patriot missile systems. He also warned of imposing more sanctions on Russia unless Putin agrees to a ceasefire withing 50 days.&nbsp;

Putin is not planning to stop the war in Ukraine despite Trump's threats to impose sanctions on Moscow. Sources revealed that the Russian president will not stop the war under pressure from the West and will continue until he gets what he wants.

Even after US President Donald Trump's continuous warnings and ultimatum, Russian President Vladimir Putin is unfazed and intends to continue the war in Ukraine, according to three Kremlin sources, Reuters reported. Infact, Putin is not afraid of Trump's tariff threats or Western sanctions. Speaking on condition of anonymity, the Kremlin source said that Putin will continue the war until he gets what he wants, adding that his territorial demands may widen as Russian forces advance. The sources said that Russia's economy and its military is capable and strong enough to weather any additional Western measures, Reuters reported. The sources, familiar with top-level Kremlin thinking, said that the Russian president will not stop the war under pressure from the West, considering that Russia, which has survived the toughest sanctions, can also survive further economic hardship by the West, including Trump's tariff threats. Meanwhile, two of the sources said that Russia has the upper hand on the battlefield and its economy. "Putin thinks no one has seriously engaged with him on the details of peace in Ukraine - including the Americans - so he will continue until he gets what he wants," one of the sources told Reuters. Trump and Putin have been holding phone calls, to discuss a ceasefire as the US president has been trying hard to end the long-standing war between Russia and Ukraine. Noting Putin and Trump's friendship, source further said, "Putin values the relationship with Trump and had good discussions with Witkoff, but the interests of Russia come above all else." Earlier on Monday, Trump expressed frustration with Putin's refusal to agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine. The US president announced a wave of weapons supplied to Ukraine, including Patriot missile systems. He also warned of imposing more sanctions on Russia unless Putin agrees to a ceasefire withing 50 days.

Putin is not planning to stop the war in Ukraine despite Trump's threats to impose sanctions on Moscow. Sources revealed that the Russian president will not stop the war under pressure from the West and will continue until he gets what he wants.

Putin unfazed by Trump's ultimatum? Russian president to continue war until he gets what he wants, reveal Kremlin sources

US President Donald Trump reportedly asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky whether his forces could strike Moscow and St. Petersburg if the United States provided them with long-range weapons, according to reports by The Financial Times and The Washington Post.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-agent-trumpenko-did-melania-turn-trump-against-putin-ukrainians-praise-first-lady-as-secret-weapon-against-russia-1752593843191">'Agent Trumpenko': Did Melania turn Trump against Putin? Ukrainians praise First Lady as secret weapon against Russia</a><h2>White House says Trump’s comments were misrepresented</h2>Responding to the reports, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt denied that Trump was encouraging escalation. “The Financial Times is notorious for taking words wildly out of context to get clicks because their paper is dying,” she said in a statement to Newsweek. “President Trump was merely asking a question, not encouraging further killing. He’s working tirelessly to stop the killing and end this war,” she added.<h2>What did Trump ask Zelensky?</h2>During a phone call on 4 July, Trump is said to have asked: “Volodymyr, can you hit Moscow? Can you hit St Petersburg too?” Zelensky reportedly replied, “Absolutely. We can if you give us the weapons.” According to the FT report, Trump supported the idea, describing it as a strategy to “make them [Russians] feel the pain” and force President Vladimir Putin to negotiate. The call took place just a day after Trump had what he described as a “bad” conversation with Putin.Watch: Trump's 'such good English' praise prompts eye rolls in Liberiahttps://www.wionews.com/videos/-trump-s-such-good-english-praise-prompts-eye-rolls-in-liberia-1752593375881/embed<h2>US quietly offers Ukraine list of long-range strike options</h2>Following the call, US officials reportedly shared with Zelensky a list of long-range weapons that could be supplied through third-party transfers. This would allow NATO countries to send the systems on behalf of the US, avoiding a congressional freeze on direct military aid to Ukraine.Among the systems discussed were Tomahawk missiles with a 1,600km range and ATACMS, which have already been used by Ukraine but cannot reach targets as far as Moscow.<h2>Trump expresses frustration with Putin</h2>Speaking in the Oval Office on Monday (July 14), alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump criticised Russia’s failure to commit to a peace deal. “I’m disappointed in President Putin because I thought we would have had a deal two months ago,” he said. Trump also announced a new plan to send Patriot air defence systems and interceptor missiles to Ukraine, but did not mention any new long-range weapons.

The White House has responded to media reports claiming that US President Donald Trump asked Ukrainian President Zelensky whether he could strike Moscow if US provided him with long range weapons. 

US President Donald Trump reportedly asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky whether his forces could strike Moscow and St. Petersburg if the United States provided them with long-range weapons, according to reports by The Financial Times and The Washington Post. Also read: 'Agent Trumpenko': Did Melania turn Trump against Putin? Ukrainians praise First Lady as secret weapon against Russia White House says Trump’s comments were misrepresented Responding to the reports, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt denied that Trump was encouraging escalation. “The Financial Times is notorious for taking words wildly out of context to get clicks because their paper is dying,” she said in a statement to Newsweek. “President Trump was merely asking a question, not encouraging further killing. He’s working tirelessly to stop the killing and end this war,” she added. What did Trump ask Zelensky? During a phone call on 4 July, Trump is said to have asked: “Volodymyr, can you hit Moscow? Can you hit St Petersburg too?” Zelensky reportedly replied, “Absolutely. We can if you give us the weapons.” According to the FT report, Trump supported the idea, describing it as a strategy to “make them [Russians] feel the pain” and force President Vladimir Putin to negotiate. The call took place just a day after Trump had what he described as a “bad” conversation with Putin. Watch: Trump's 'such good English' praise prompts eye rolls in Liberia https://www.wionews.com/videos/-trump-s-such-good-english-praise-prompts-eye-rolls-in-liberia-1752593375881/embed US quietly offers Ukraine list of long-range strike options Following the call, US officials reportedly shared with Zelensky a list of long-range weapons that could be supplied through third-party transfers. This would allow NATO countries to send the systems on behalf of the US, avoiding a congressional freeze on direct military aid to Ukraine. Among the systems discussed were Tomahawk missiles with a 1,600km range and ATACMS, which have already been used by Ukraine but cannot reach targets as far as Moscow. Trump expresses frustration with Putin Speaking in the Oval Office on Monday (July 14), alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump criticised Russia’s failure to commit to a peace deal. “I’m disappointed in President Putin because I thought we would have had a deal two months ago,” he said. Trump also announced a new plan to send Patriot air defence systems and interceptor missiles to Ukraine, but did not mention any new long-range weapons.

The White House has responded to media reports claiming that US President Donald Trump asked Ukrainian President Zelensky whether he could strike Moscow if US provided him with long range weapons.&nbsp;

'Wildly out of context': White House says Trump 'was not encouraging further killing' after reports claim he wanted Zelensky to 'strike Moscow'

Ukrainians have praised Melania Trump for reportedly playing a key role in changing Donald Trump’s position on Russia, calling her an “undercover agent” for Ukraine after his recent comments about Vladimir Putin. Speaking at the White House on Monday, Trump admitted it was his wife who pointed out the contradiction between his conversations with Putin and Russia’s continued strikes on Ukraine.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-volodymyr-can-you-hit-moscow-trump-asked-zelensky-about-deep-strikes-inside-russia-to-make-them-feel-pain-here-s-how-zelensky-responded-1752578230631">‘Volodymyr, can you hit Moscow?’: Trump asked Zelensky about deep strikes inside Russia to ‘make them feel pain’ — Here’s how Zelensky&nbsp;responded</a>“I go home, I tell the First Lady: I spoke with Vladimir today. We had a wonderful conversation,” Trump told reporters. “She said: Really? Another city was just hit.” He added, “We thought we had a deal numerous times. I get home, I’d say, ‘First Lady, I had the most wonderful talk with Vladimir. I think we’re finished.’ And then I’d turn on the television, or she’ll say to me one time, ‘Well, that’s strange because they just bombed a nursing home.’"Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Trump threatens 'severe tariffs' on Russia allieshttps://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-trump-threatens-severe-tariffs-on-russia-allies-1752560035091/embedTrump’s comments quickly spread across pro-Ukrainian social media, where Melania was dubbed “Agent Melania Trumpenko”. Memes showed her in Ukrainian military gear, with one image placing her in a wide-brimmed hat and a jacket featuring the logo of Ukraine’s armed forces.“Lots of love for Melania Trump on Ukrainian social media tonight,” posted Business Ukraine Magazine, sharing a cartoon of characters presenting her with a traditional Ukrainian hat. Another user joked, “Melania singlehandedly doing more for Ukraine than the entire GOP.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Lots of love for Melania Trump on Ukrainian social media tonight <a href="https://t.co/rj9CJ4VIzz">pic.twitter.com/rj9CJ4VIzz</a>&mdash; Business Ukraine mag (@Biz_Ukraine_Mag) <a href="https://twitter.com/Biz_Ukraine_Mag/status/1944814199860789596?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Agent Melania Trumpenko <a href="https://t.co/rVzf6tJfvJ">pic.twitter.com/rVzf6tJfvJ</a>&mdash; Kate from Kharkiv (@BohuslavskaKate) <a href="https://twitter.com/BohuslavskaKate/status/1944828918625689981?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Melania’s past support for Ukraine resurfaces</h2>Although Melania Trump typically stays out of political debates, this isn’t the first time she has spoken up for Ukraine. At the beginning of Russia’s invasion in 2022, she called on the public to donate to the Red Cross, calling the suffering of civilians “heartbreaking and horrific” and offering her “thoughts and prayers” to the Ukrainian people.<h2>Trump asks Zelensky about missile strikes on Russian cities</h2>Following another failed round of diplomacy with the Kremlin, Trump revealed he had asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky whether Kyiv could strike Moscow and St. Petersburg. He reportedly said such action could “make them [Russia] feel the pain” and force Putin to the negotiating table. Trump has also threatened Russia with “very severe tariffs” unless a ceasefire agreement is reached within 50 days.

Trump on Monday admitted that First Lady Melania was the one who pointed out the contradiction between his conversations with Putin and Russia’s continued strikes on Ukraine.

Ukrainians have praised Melania Trump for reportedly playing a key role in changing Donald Trump’s position on Russia, calling her an “undercover agent” for Ukraine after his recent comments about Vladimir Putin. Speaking at the White House on Monday, Trump admitted it was his wife who pointed out the contradiction between his conversations with Putin and Russia’s continued strikes on Ukraine. Also read: ‘Volodymyr, can you hit Moscow?’: Trump asked Zelensky about deep strikes inside Russia to ‘make them feel pain’ — Here’s how Zelensky responded “I go home, I tell the First Lady: I spoke with Vladimir today. We had a wonderful conversation,” Trump told reporters. “She said: Really? Another city was just hit.” He added, “We thought we had a deal numerous times. I get home, I’d say, ‘First Lady, I had the most wonderful talk with Vladimir. I think we’re finished.’ And then I’d turn on the television, or she’ll say to me one time, ‘Well, that’s strange because they just bombed a nursing home.’" Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Trump threatens 'severe tariffs' on Russia allies https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-trump-threatens-severe-tariffs-on-russia-allies-1752560035091/embed Trump’s comments quickly spread across pro-Ukrainian social media, where Melania was dubbed “Agent Melania Trumpenko”. Memes showed her in Ukrainian military gear, with one image placing her in a wide-brimmed hat and a jacket featuring the logo of Ukraine’s armed forces. “Lots of love for Melania Trump on Ukrainian social media tonight,” posted Business Ukraine Magazine, sharing a cartoon of characters presenting her with a traditional Ukrainian hat. Another user joked, “Melania singlehandedly doing more for Ukraine than the entire GOP.”

Trump on Monday admitted that First Lady Melania was the one who pointed out the contradiction between his conversations with Putin and Russia’s continued strikes on Ukraine.

'Agent Trumpenko': Did Melania turn Trump against Putin? Ukrainians praise First Lady as secret weapon against Russia

US President Donald Trump reportedly asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky whether Ukraine could strike deep into Russian territory, including Moscow, if given the weapons to do so, according to a report by the Financial&nbsp;Times.<h2>What did Trump say during the July 4 call?</h2>During a phone call on 4 July, Trump asked, “Volodymyr, can you hit Moscow? Can you hit St Petersburg too?” Zelensky is said to have replied, “Absolutely. We can if you give us the weapons.” Sources told the Financial Times that Trump appeared to back the idea, saying it was part of a plan to “make them [Russians] feel the pain” and pressure President Vladimir Putin into negotiations. The call took place just one day after Trump had a “bad” phone call with Putin.<h2>US quietly shares list of long-range weapons with Ukraine</h2>Following the conversation, US officials gave Zelensky a list of possible long-range strike weapons that could be supplied via third-party transfers, allowing NATO countries to deliver the systems on behalf of the US, bypassing a congressional freeze on direct aid. The Ukrainians requested Tomahawk missiles, which have a range of 1,600km. However, both the Trump and Biden administrations have shied away from providing Kyiv with long-range weapons, fearing escalation if Ukraine uses them on Russian soil. One of the systems discussed was the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), which Ukraine has already used to strike targets in Russian-occupied areas. However, ATACMS has a maximum range of about 300km, not enough to reach Moscow.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-tell-the-first-lady-i-spoke-to-vladimir-trump-complains-putin-s-lovely-calls-often-end-with-missile-strikes-1752515617996">‘I tell the First Lady, I spoke to Vladimir’: Trump complains Putin’s ‘lovely’ calls often end with missile strikes</a><h2>Trump publicly criticises Putin’s lack of action on peace</h2>At a recent Oval Office meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Monday (July 14), Trump said he was “very unhappy” with the Russian president. “I’m disappointed in President Putin because I thought we would have had a deal two months ago,” Trump said. The US leader also confirmed a new plan to send Patriot air defence systems and interceptors to Ukraine. He did not mention other long-range weapons during the public appearance.Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Trump threatens 'severe tariffs' on Russia allieshttps://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-trump-threatens-severe-tariffs-on-russia-allies-1752560035091/embed<h2>Russia 'doesn't care'</h2>Russia’s former president Dmitry Medvedev dismissed Trump’s comments as a “theatrical ultimatum”. Writing on X, Medvedev claimed, “Russia didn’t care.” Putin previously warned of a serious escalation if Ukraine used Western long-range weapons to strike within Russia. After Kyiv first used ATACMS on Russian territory last year, Putin called it a step towards a “global” war and responded by test-firing a new missile over Ukraine.Following those attacks, Russia also revised its nuclear doctrine, lowering the threshold for using nuclear weapons. The new policy suggests Russia could target NATO nuclear powers, including the US, UK, and France, if Ukraine continues to strike Russian soil using Western-supplied missiles.

Trump allegedly asked if Zelensky could strike deep inside Russia, if given weapons to do so.

This comes after Trump voiced frustration with Putin's lacklustre peace efforts.

On Monday, Trump approved a weapons deal for Ukraine via NATO.

US President Donald Trump reportedly asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky whether Ukraine could strike deep into Russian territory, including Moscow, if given the weapons to do so, according to a report by the Financial Times. What did Trump say during the July 4 call? During a phone call on 4 July, Trump asked, “Volodymyr, can you hit Moscow? Can you hit St Petersburg too?” Zelensky is said to have replied, “Absolutely. We can if you give us the weapons.” Sources told the Financial Times that Trump appeared to back the idea, saying it was part of a plan to “make them [Russians] feel the pain” and pressure President Vladimir Putin into negotiations. The call took place just one day after Trump had a “bad” phone call with Putin. US quietly shares list of long-range weapons with Ukraine Following the conversation, US officials gave Zelensky a list of possible long-range strike weapons that could be supplied via third-party transfers, allowing NATO countries to deliver the systems on behalf of the US, bypassing a congressional freeze on direct aid. The Ukrainians requested Tomahawk missiles, which have a range of 1,600km. However, both the Trump and Biden administrations have shied away from providing Kyiv with long-range weapons, fearing escalation if Ukraine uses them on Russian soil. One of the systems discussed was the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), which Ukraine has already used to strike targets in Russian-occupied areas. However, ATACMS has a maximum range of about 300km, not enough to reach Moscow. Also read: ‘I tell the First Lady, I spoke to Vladimir’: Trump complains Putin’s ‘lovely’ calls often end with missile strikes Trump publicly criticises Putin’s lack of action on peace At a recent Oval Office meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Monday (July 14), Trump said he was “very unhappy” with the Russian president. “I’m disappointed in President Putin because I thought we would have had a deal two months ago,” Trump said. The US leader also confirmed a new plan to send Patriot air defence systems and interceptors to Ukraine. He did not mention other long-range weapons during the public appearance. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Trump threatens 'severe tariffs' on Russia allies https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-trump-threatens-severe-tariffs-on-russia-allies-1752560035091/embed Russia 'doesn't care' Russia’s former president Dmitry Medvedev dismissed Trump’s comments as a “theatrical ultimatum”. Writing on X, Medvedev claimed, “Russia didn’t care.” Putin previously warned of a serious escalation if Ukraine used Western long-range weapons to strike within Russia. After Kyiv first used ATACMS on Russian territory last year, Putin called it a step towards a “global” war and responded by test-firing a new missile over Ukraine. Following those attacks, Russia also revised its nuclear doctrine, lowering the threshold for using nuclear weapons. The new policy suggests Russia could target NATO nuclear powers, including the US, UK, and France, if Ukraine continues to strike Russian soil using Western-supplied missiles.

Key Highlights:Trump allegedly asked if Zelensky could strike deep inside Russia, if given weapons to do so.This comes after Trump voiced frustration with Putin's lacklustre peace efforts.On Monday, Trump approved a weapons deal for Ukraine via NATO.

‘Volodymyr, can you hit Moscow?’: Trump asked Zelensky about deep strikes inside Russia to ‘make them feel pain’ — Here’s how Zelensky responded

US President Donald Trump on Monday confirmed that the United States and NATO allies have struck a major deal to supply Ukraine with large quantities of military equipment, but with Europe footing the bill. Speaking from the Oval Office after meeting NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump said he was “very unhappy” with Russia’s actions in Ukraine and warned of 100% tariffs. The meeting was also attended by Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-if-we-don-t-have-a-deal-in-50-days-trump-gives-ultimatum-to-putin-over-ukraine-war-during-meet-with-nato-secretary-general-mark-rutte-1752507193212">'If we don’t have a deal in 50 days': Trump gives ULTIMATUM to Putin over Ukraine war: Here's what US president said</a><h2>Europe to fund weapons as US agrees to manufacture military equipment</h2>Trump confirmed that a new agreement had been finalised with NATO partners to deliver weapons to Ukraine, but stressed that the US would not be paying for the aid. “We make the best equipment, the best missiles, the best of everything, the European nations know that… and we’ve made a deal today where we are going to be sending them weapons, and they’re going to be paying for them,” Trump said. “We the United States will not be having any payment made… but we will manufacture it, and they’re going to be paying for it,” he added.<h2>Rutte says Ukraine will receive ‘massive’ military support</h2>NATO chief Mark Rutte said the deal would provide Ukraine with a huge boost in military support, including air defence systems, missiles and ammunition. “This is really big. Trump called me on Thursday and said he wanted to give Ukraine what it needed to have, but asked Europeans to pay for it, which is totally logical,” Rutte said.He added that countries including Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, the UK, the Netherlands and Canada had already agreed to participate, with more expected to join. Rutte said NATO would work to “make sure that we know what Ukrainians need” and that this was “only the first wave.”<h2>Trump confirms Patriot missile batteries will arrive ‘within days’</h2>Trump said Ukraine would be receiving “everything,” including full Patriot missile batteries, through an arrangement in which some NATO countries would send their current Patriot systems, and the US would then replace those stockpiles.“We’re going to have some come very soon, within days… a couple of the countries that have Patriots are going to swap over and will replace the Patriots with the ones they have,” Trump said. When asked if it would be just the missiles or full systems, Trump replied, “Everything. It’s everything.”<h2>Trump says peace deal with Putin has failed multiple times</h2>Trump, who had previously promised to end the war within 24 hours of taking office, admitted there had been multiple failed attempts at securing peace. “It’s a very deadly war. I thought we had a deal on Ukraine about four times… but it just keeps going on and on, and every night a lot of people are dying,” he said. Rutte also criticised Russia, saying its attacks were aimed not at military targets, but to “create panic” in Ukrainian towns.

Trump confirmed that a new agreement had been finalised with NATO partners to deliver weapons to Ukraine, but stressed that the US would not be paying for the aid.

US President Donald Trump on Monday confirmed that the United States and NATO allies have struck a major deal to supply Ukraine with large quantities of military equipment, but with Europe footing the bill. Speaking from the Oval Office after meeting NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump said he was “very unhappy” with Russia’s actions in Ukraine and warned of 100% tariffs. The meeting was also attended by Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Also read: 'If we don’t have a deal in 50 days': Trump gives ULTIMATUM to Putin over Ukraine war: Here's what US president said Europe to fund weapons as US agrees to manufacture military equipment Trump confirmed that a new agreement had been finalised with NATO partners to deliver weapons to Ukraine, but stressed that the US would not be paying for the aid. “We make the best equipment, the best missiles, the best of everything, the European nations know that… and we’ve made a deal today where we are going to be sending them weapons, and they’re going to be paying for them,” Trump said. “We the United States will not be having any payment made… but we will manufacture it, and they’re going to be paying for it,” he added. Rutte says Ukraine will receive ‘massive’ military support NATO chief Mark Rutte said the deal would provide Ukraine with a huge boost in military support, including air defence systems, missiles and ammunition. “This is really big. Trump called me on Thursday and said he wanted to give Ukraine what it needed to have, but asked Europeans to pay for it, which is totally logical,” Rutte said. He added that countries including Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, the UK, the Netherlands and Canada had already agreed to participate, with more expected to join. Rutte said NATO would work to “make sure that we know what Ukrainians need” and that this was “only the first wave.” Trump confirms Patriot missile batteries will arrive ‘within days’ Trump said Ukraine would be receiving “everything,” including full Patriot missile batteries, through an arrangement in which some NATO countries would send their current Patriot systems, and the US would then replace those stockpiles. “We’re going to have some come very soon, within days… a couple of the countries that have Patriots are going to swap over and will replace the Patriots with the ones they have,” Trump said. When asked if it would be just the missiles or full systems, Trump replied, “Everything. It’s everything.” Trump says peace deal with Putin has failed multiple times Trump, who had previously promised to end the war within 24 hours of taking office, admitted there had been multiple failed attempts at securing peace. “It’s a very deadly war. I thought we had a deal on Ukraine about four times… but it just keeps going on and on, and every night a lot of people are dying,” he said. Rutte also criticised Russia, saying its attacks were aimed not at military targets, but to “create panic” in Ukrainian towns.

Trump confirmed that a new agreement had been finalised with NATO partners to deliver weapons to Ukraine, but stressed that the US would not be paying for the aid.

'Best missiles, best of everything': Trump announces deal for 'greatest military equipment' for Ukraine, with Europe footing the bill

US President Donald Trump met NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House on Monday, 14 July, and used the occasion to issue a strong warning to Russia. Speaking alongside Rutte in the Oval Office, Trump said the US would impose “very severe” tariffs on Russia unless a peace deal to end the war in Ukraine is reached within 50 days.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-germany-s-taurus-missiles-here-s-why-ukraine-keeps-asking-for-them-1752489150206">'Game-changer on battlefield': What are Germany’s Taurus missiles? Here's why Ukraine keeps asking for them</a><h2>Trump calls it Biden’s war, not his</h2>At the press conference, Trump distanced himself from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. “It wasn’t my war. It was Biden’s war. It’s not my war. I’m trying to get you out of it,” he said. He added, “We’re gonna be doing very severe tariffs if we don’t have a deal in 50 days. Tariffs that are about 100%, we call them secondary tariffs.”Trump said he was “disappointed in President Putin” for not agreeing to a deal earlier, claiming, “I thought we would have had a deal two months ago, but it doesn’t seem to get there.”Trump added that US tariffs would be “biting” and hit the Russian economy. He said, “I hope we don’t get to the point where we do, but I’ve been hearing so much talk. It’s all talk. It’s all talk, and then missiles go into Kyiv and kill 60 people. It’s got to stop. That’s got to stop.”<h2>Trump's growing frustration with Putin</h2>This isn’t the first time Trump has publicly criticised the Russian president. While Trump had earlier promised to end the war within 24 hours of taking office, more than four months into his presidency, there has been no breakthrough.Last week, Trump said, “We get a lot of b**t thrown at us by Putin. He’s very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless.”<h2>Failed talks and Russian rejection</h2>The Trump administration has held talks with both Ukraine and Russia in recent months and even brought them together for a round of discussions in Istanbul in May. While Ukraine has agreed to a proposed 30-day ceasefire, Russia rejected the offer, accusing Kyiv of planning to regroup and rearm during the break. Asked about whether he planned to retaliate, Trump said, “I wouldn’t be telling you. Don’t we want to have a little surprise?”<h2>Tariff bill targets Russian exports</h2>Senator Lindsey Graham has introduced a bill that would allow the US to impose tariffs on countries that continue buying Russian oil, gas, or uranium. Russia remains a major energy exporter, with countries like China, India and Türkiye still purchasing its fossil fuels. Even some European nations continue buying Russian&nbsp;uranium.

At the press conference, Trump distanced himself from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. “It wasn’t my war. It was Biden’s war. It’s not my war. I’m trying to get you out of it,” he said. 

US President Donald Trump met NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House on Monday, 14 July, and used the occasion to issue a strong warning to Russia. Speaking alongside Rutte in the Oval Office, Trump said the US would impose “very severe” tariffs on Russia unless a peace deal to end the war in Ukraine is reached within 50 days. Also read: 'Game-changer on battlefield': What are Germany’s Taurus missiles? Here's why Ukraine keeps asking for them Trump calls it Biden’s war, not his At the press conference, Trump distanced himself from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. “It wasn’t my war. It was Biden’s war. It’s not my war. I’m trying to get you out of it,” he said. He added, “We’re gonna be doing very severe tariffs if we don’t have a deal in 50 days. Tariffs that are about 100%, we call them secondary tariffs.” Trump said he was “disappointed in President Putin” for not agreeing to a deal earlier, claiming, “I thought we would have had a deal two months ago, but it doesn’t seem to get there.” Trump added that US tariffs would be “biting” and hit the Russian economy. He said, “I hope we don’t get to the point where we do, but I’ve been hearing so much talk. It’s all talk. It’s all talk, and then missiles go into Kyiv and kill 60 people. It’s got to stop. That’s got to stop.” Trump's growing frustration with Putin This isn’t the first time Trump has publicly criticised the Russian president. While Trump had earlier promised to end the war within 24 hours of taking office, more than four months into his presidency, there has been no breakthrough. Last week, Trump said, “We get a lot of b**t thrown at us by Putin. He’s very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless.” Failed talks and Russian rejection The Trump administration has held talks with both Ukraine and Russia in recent months and even brought them together for a round of discussions in Istanbul in May. While Ukraine has agreed to a proposed 30-day ceasefire, Russia rejected the offer, accusing Kyiv of planning to regroup and rearm during the break. Asked about whether he planned to retaliate, Trump said, “I wouldn’t be telling you. Don’t we want to have a little surprise?” Tariff bill targets Russian exports Senator Lindsey Graham has introduced a bill that would allow the US to impose tariffs on countries that continue buying Russian oil, gas, or uranium. Russia remains a major energy exporter, with countries like China, India and Türkiye still purchasing its fossil fuels. Even some European nations continue buying Russian uranium.

At the press conference, Trump distanced himself from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. “It wasn’t my war. It was Biden’s war. It’s not my war. I’m trying to get you out of it,” he said.&nbsp;

'If we don’t have a deal in 50 days': Trump gives ULTIMATUM to Putin over Ukraine war: Here's what US president said

Chelsea were crowned FIFA Club World Cup champions on Sunday (July 13) after they beat Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) 3-0 in the summit clash at the Metlife Stadium. The win saw Chelsea become the first winners of the expanded Club World Cup in the United States with a trophy presentation also in the spotlight. United States President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino were seen presenting Chelsea captain Reece James with the Club World Cup Trophy, but one particular moment stole the show as President Trump stayed during the celebrations.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">CHELSEA ARE THE CHAMPIONS OF THE WORLD 🏆 CHELSEA LIFTING THE TROPHY WITH DONALD TRUMP STANDING IN BETWEEN THEM 🇺🇸 Powerful 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/FDJk0jJvcV">pic.twitter.com/FDJk0jJvcV</a>&mdash; Ape𝕏 (@CubanOnlyTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/CubanOnlyTrump/status/1944537302308409472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Did Donald Trump crash Chelsea's Club World Cup celebrations?</h2>President Trump along with Infantino were seen handing over the Club World Cup trophy to James when one awkward moment made headlines. Trump opted to stay in the frontline of the Chelsea players after they started their celebrations. Trump stood between James and goalkeeper Robert Sanchez as he refrained from leaving the spotlight.Later, FIFA President Infantino took matters into his own hands and took Trump away from the celebrations, notably in the background and allowed Chelsea players to celebrate.&nbsp;However, netizens did not sit back and spotted the incident, making remarks. While it looked inappropriate, it was interesting that no players had any issue with the scene and nothing was reported by the FIFA.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-i-keep-looking-up-to-him-wimbledon-champion-jannik-sinner-full-of-praise-for-carlos-alcaraz-1752463414215">'I keep looking up to him': Wimbledon champion Jannik Sinner full of praise for Carlos Alcaraz</a>&nbsp;Cole Palmer scored two goals and made another as Chelsea stunned Paris Saint-Germain in the final of the Club World Cup on Sunday, beating the European champions 3-0 before lifting the trophy alongside US President Donald Trump. PSG were the favourites after coming to the United States fresh from winning the Champions League and having destroyed Real Madrid 4-0 in the semi-finals.&nbsp;But having been three goals ahead early on in the semis, this time the roles were reversed as PSG found themselves 3-0 down by the break. Palmer opened the scoring midway through the first half and struck again to make it two on the half-hour mark, before taking advantage of passive defending to set up Joao Pedro for the third on 43 minutes.

Chelsea were crowned FIFA Club World Cup champions on Sunday (July 13) after they beat Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) 3-0 in the summit clash at the Metlife Stadium. 

Chelsea were crowned FIFA Club World Cup champions on Sunday (July 13) after they beat Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) 3-0 in the summit clash at the Metlife Stadium. The win saw Chelsea become the first winners of the expanded Club World Cup in the United States with a trophy presentation also in the spotlight. United States President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino were seen presenting Chelsea captain Reece James with the Club World Cup Trophy, but one particular moment stole the show as President Trump stayed during the celebrations.

Chelsea were crowned FIFA Club World Cup champions on Sunday (July 13) after they beat Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) 3-0 in the summit clash at the Metlife Stadium.&nbsp;

Watch: Did Donald Trump crash Chelsea's Club World Cup celebrations? FIFA president escorts US President backstage

United States senators are preparing to hand Trump what they're describing as a "sledgehammer" that would break Russian President Vladimir Putin's war economy. This so-called sledgehammer bill, as per reports, can have potentially devastating economic ramifications on India and other nations. What is this 'sledgehammer', and why would it affect India? Here's all you need to know.<h2>Trump's new 'sledgehammer' against Russia</h2>In the US, bipartisan momentum is building in the US Senate for sweeping new sanctions, with reports suggesting that senators were on the path to arming Trump with a "sledgehammer" bill to use against Moscow. The bill would arm the President of the United States, Donald Trump, with sweeping authority to hit Russia.&nbsp;This bill has bipartisan support, which means it has backing from both Trump's Republican Party and the opposition Democratic Party. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who introduced the bill alongside Democrat Richard Blumenthal, said it would serve as a "sledgehammer" to break Putin's war economy. It would allow Trump "to go after Putin's economy and all those countries who prop up the Putin war machine," Graham told CBS News.<h2>How will a bill against Russia affect India?</h2>The bill, as mentioned earlier, would give the POTUS sweeping powers to hit Putin's Russia with harsh economic penalties. However, it could also lead to the US imposing up to a 500 per cent tariff on India. How?In addition to sanctioning power against Moscow, it would allow Trump to impose equally harsh financial penalties and sanctions on any nation the US deems to be helping Russia's "war machine". This includes nations that purchase from Russia. Speaking to CBS News, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said that "this congressional package... would give President Trump the ability to impose 500% tariffs on any country that helps Russia". This includes economies that purchase Russian goods, like India, and nations like China or Brazil. India imports precious stones and metals, discounted crude oil, coal, and fertilisers from Russia.Watch | Asian stocks dip as Trump steps up tariff threats<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/asian-stocks-dip-as-trump-steps-up-tariff-threats-1752471036975/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/asian-stocks-dip-as-trump-steps-up-tariff-threats-1752471036975/embed</a><h2>Will Trump use the bill to sanction India?</h2>While Trump has not specifically mentioned whether he would penalise India for trading with Russia, he appeared to back the bill. In a conversation with NBC, Trump said, "It's a bill that the Senate is passing that very respectfully lets the president do whatever he wants, as you know," he said, adding, "In other words, it's at my option if I want to use it. They're going to pass a very major and very biting sanctions bill, but it’s up to the president as to whether or not he wants to exercise it."&nbsp;&nbsp;

This so-called sledgehammer bill, as per reports, can have potentially devastating economic ramifications on India and other nations. What is this 'sledgehammer', and why would it affect India? Here's all you need to know.

United States senators are preparing to hand Trump what they're describing as a "sledgehammer" that would break Russian President Vladimir Putin's war economy. This so-called sledgehammer bill, as per reports, can have potentially devastating economic ramifications on India and other nations. What is this 'sledgehammer', and why would it affect India? Here's all you need to know. Trump's new 'sledgehammer' against Russia In the US, bipartisan momentum is building in the US Senate for sweeping new sanctions, with reports suggesting that senators were on the path to arming Trump with a "sledgehammer" bill to use against Moscow. The bill would arm the President of the United States, Donald Trump, with sweeping authority to hit Russia. This bill has bipartisan support, which means it has backing from both Trump's Republican Party and the opposition Democratic Party. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who introduced the bill alongside Democrat Richard Blumenthal, said it would serve as a "sledgehammer" to break Putin's war economy. It would allow Trump "to go after Putin's economy and all those countries who prop up the Putin war machine," Graham told CBS News. How will a bill against Russia affect India? The bill, as mentioned earlier, would give the POTUS sweeping powers to hit Putin's Russia with harsh economic penalties. However, it could also lead to the US imposing up to a 500 per cent tariff on India. How? In addition to sanctioning power against Moscow, it would allow Trump to impose equally harsh financial penalties and sanctions on any nation the US deems to be helping Russia's "war machine". This includes nations that purchase from Russia. Speaking to CBS News, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said that "this congressional package... would give President Trump the ability to impose 500% tariffs on any country that helps Russia". This includes economies that purchase Russian goods, like India, and nations like China or Brazil. India imports precious stones and metals, discounted crude oil, coal, and fertilisers from Russia. Watch | Asian stocks dip as Trump steps up tariff threats https://www.wionews.com/videos/asian-stocks-dip-as-trump-steps-up-tariff-threats-1752471036975/embed Will Trump use the bill to sanction India? While Trump has not specifically mentioned whether he would penalise India for trading with Russia, he appeared to back the bill. In a conversation with NBC, Trump said, "It's a bill that the Senate is passing that very respectfully lets the president do whatever he wants, as you know," he said, adding, "In other words, it's at my option if I want to use it. They're going to pass a very major and very biting sanctions bill, but it’s up to the president as to whether or not he wants to exercise it."

This so-called sledgehammer bill, as per reports, can have potentially devastating economic ramifications on India and other nations. What is this 'sledgehammer', and why would it affect India? Here's all you need to know.

India in crosshairs? Trump's 'SLEDGEHAMMER' Russia sanctions bill could slam New Delhi with 500% tariffs. Here's how

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Jul 13) said that negotiations over a Gaza ceasefire were ongoing and expressed hope for progress "over the next week". His statement comes even as Israeli airstrikes the same day killed more than 40 Palestinians, including children in Gaza, and as Qatari-mediated talks remained deadlocked. "Gaza – we are talking, and hopefully we're going to get that straightened out over the next week," Trump told reporters, echoing optimism he had previously voiced on July 4. But on the ground, there seem to be little to no signs of a breakthrough.<h2>Israeli strikes kill children collecting water</h2>As per Gaza's civil defence agency, 43 Palestinians were killed on Sunday alone, including 11 people at a market in Gaza City and eight children at a water distribution point in the Nuseirat refugee camp. Israel, meanwhile, said it was targeting an Islamic Jihad member but admitted that due to a technical error, "the munition fell dozens of metres from the target". The nation also said that "The incident is under review" and reports of casualties were being examined.<h2>Israel says '150 terror targets' struck as truce talks falter</h2>AFP reports that Israel, in a statement, said that its military jets "struck more than 150 terror targets". It also released drone footage showing airstrikes and rising plumes of smoke. Israel's intensifying campaign comes amid growing scrutiny of civilian casualties and escalating humanitarian concerns. Gaza's death toll now exceeds 58,026, most of them civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The UN has called the figures reliable.Watch | Trump tries to calm uproar over Epstein probe<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-tries-to-calm-uproar-over-epstein-probe-1752480889991/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-tries-to-calm-uproar-over-epstein-probe-1752480889991/embed</a>Meanwhile, efforts to negotiate a 60-day ceasefire and hostage deal in Doha hit an impasse over the weekend, with both Israel and Hamas blaming each other for the deadlock. As per AFP, a senior Israeli official accused Hamas of "intransigence", saying, “Hamas remains intransigent, clinging to positions that prevent the mediators from advancing an agreement.” Meanwhile, citing a Palestinian source, AFP reported that Israel was seeking to maintain a military presence in over 40 per cent of Gaza and force Palestinians into the south "in preparation for forcibly displacing them to Egypt or other countries".

"Gaza – we are talking, and hopefully we're going to get that straightened out over the next week," Trump told reporters, echoing optimism he had previously voiced on July 4. But on the ground, there seem to be little to no signs of a breakthrough.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Jul 13) said that negotiations over a Gaza ceasefire were ongoing and expressed hope for progress "over the next week". His statement comes even as Israeli airstrikes the same day killed more than 40 Palestinians, including children in Gaza, and as Qatari-mediated talks remained deadlocked. "Gaza – we are talking, and hopefully we're going to get that straightened out over the next week," Trump told reporters, echoing optimism he had previously voiced on July 4. But on the ground, there seem to be little to no signs of a breakthrough. Israeli strikes kill children collecting water As per Gaza's civil defence agency, 43 Palestinians were killed on Sunday alone, including 11 people at a market in Gaza City and eight children at a water distribution point in the Nuseirat refugee camp. Israel, meanwhile, said it was targeting an Islamic Jihad member but admitted that due to a technical error, "the munition fell dozens of metres from the target". The nation also said that "The incident is under review" and reports of casualties were being examined. Israel says '150 terror targets' struck as truce talks falter AFP reports that Israel, in a statement, said that its military jets "struck more than 150 terror targets". It also released drone footage showing airstrikes and rising plumes of smoke. Israel's intensifying campaign comes amid growing scrutiny of civilian casualties and escalating humanitarian concerns. Gaza's death toll now exceeds 58,026, most of them civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The UN has called the figures reliable. Watch | Trump tries to calm uproar over Epstein probe https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-tries-to-calm-uproar-over-epstein-probe-1752480889991/embed Meanwhile, efforts to negotiate a 60-day ceasefire and hostage deal in Doha hit an impasse over the weekend, with both Israel and Hamas blaming each other for the deadlock. As per AFP, a senior Israeli official accused Hamas of "intransigence", saying, “Hamas remains intransigent, clinging to positions that prevent the mediators from advancing an agreement.” Meanwhile, citing a Palestinian source, AFP reported that Israel was seeking to maintain a military presence in over 40 per cent of Gaza and force Palestinians into the south "in preparation for forcibly displacing them to Egypt or other countries".

"Gaza – we are talking, and hopefully we're going to get that straightened out over the next week," Trump told reporters, echoing optimism he had previously voiced on July 4. But on the ground, there seem to be little to no signs of a breakthrough.

Trump says he'll get Gaza 'STRAIGHTENED OUT' in a week, even as Israeli strikes kill 8 children collecting water

FBI Director Kash Patel is facing sharp criticism from Trump’s own supporters after dismissing rumours surrounding Jeffrey Epstein’s death. Patel denied claims of a cover-up and rejected the idea that he planned to resign over the controversy. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he said, “The conspiracy theories just aren’t true, never have been. It’s an honour to serve the President of the United States, and I’ll continue to do so for as long as he calls on me.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/could-trump-assassination-attempt-have-been-stopped-secret-service-officials-were-aware-of-threat-to-trump-s-life-says-report-1752410748611">Could Trump assassination attempt have been stopped? Secret Service officials were aware of threat to Trump’s life, says report</a>Patel also added that there was no “smoking gun” in the Epstein files, pushing back against long-standing conspiracy theories about a secret client list linked to the disgraced financier.<h2>Internal tensions rise inside Trump’s FBI team</h2>Patel’s comments followed reports of growing tensions between him, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino, and Attorney General Pam Bondi. According to The New York Times, Bongino clashed with Bondi during a meeting at the White House last week and later threatened to resign. “It’s me or her. She goes or I go,” Bongino reportedly told colleagues, according to Axios.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-trump-to-announce-major-russia-move-tomorrow-what-s-next-for-kyiv-and-moscow-1752408988579">Trump to announce ‘major’ Russia move tomorrow: What's next for Kyiv and Moscow?</a>The disagreement stemmed from Bondi’s failure to deliver more documents linked to the Epstein case. Bongino was said to be frustrated with the lack of progress and transparency, fuelling frustration among MAGA supporters already suspicious of the FBI’s handling of the files.<h2>MAGA supporters accuse Patel of hiding Epstein documents</h2>Patel’s public denial only added fuel to the fire. A number of right-wing commentators lashed out on social media, accusing him of being part of a cover-up or even being named in the documents himself. “Sounds like you might be in the files, Kash,” wrote the account Polling USA. “Release the Epstein files!” posted Republicans Against Trump, referencing Patel’s own previous comments that the files were under the “direct control of the FBI director.”Right-wing lawyer Robert Barnes also criticised Patel, posting: “It was YOU who said Bill Gates is in #EpsteinFiles &amp; now YOU are hiding those files. Inexcusable!”<h2>Trump calls for focus on ‘real priorities’</h2>Donald Trump stepped in on Saturday in an attempt to ease the tension. In a post on Truth Social, he appeared to back Patel while calling on his base to focus their energy on Democrat corruption and voter fraud instead of conspiracy theories.“We are about to achieve more in 6 months than any other Administration has achieved in over 100 years… Kash Patel, and the FBI, must be focused on investigating Voter Fraud, Political Corruption, ActBlue, The Rigged and Stolen Election of 2020… instead of spending month after month looking at nothing but the same old, Radical Left inspired Documents on Jeffrey Epstein,” Trump wrote. He also defended Bondi, adding: “LET PAM BONDI DO HER JOB, SHE’S GREAT!”<h2>What next for the FBI and the Epstein files?</h2>So far, neither Bondi nor Bongino has issued any public comment. The FBI also did not respond to media requests for a statement. Meanwhile, the internal fallout has revealed growing cracks within Trump’s team, especially as pressure from the MAGA base intensifies.

Patel also added that there was no “smoking gun” in the Epstein documents, pushing back against long-standing conspiracy theories about a secret client list linked to the disgraced financier.

FBI Director Kash Patel is facing sharp criticism from Trump’s own supporters after dismissing rumours surrounding Jeffrey Epstein’s death. Patel denied claims of a cover-up and rejected the idea that he planned to resign over the controversy. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he said, “The conspiracy theories just aren’t true, never have been. It’s an honour to serve the President of the United States, and I’ll continue to do so for as long as he calls on me.” Also read: Could Trump assassination attempt have been stopped? Secret Service officials were aware of threat to Trump’s life, says report Patel also added that there was no “smoking gun” in the Epstein files, pushing back against long-standing conspiracy theories about a secret client list linked to the disgraced financier. Internal tensions rise inside Trump’s FBI team Patel’s comments followed reports of growing tensions between him, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino, and Attorney General Pam Bondi. According to The New York Times, Bongino clashed with Bondi during a meeting at the White House last week and later threatened to resign. “It’s me or her. She goes or I go,” Bongino reportedly told colleagues, according to Axios. Also read: Trump to announce ‘major’ Russia move tomorrow: What's next for Kyiv and Moscow? The disagreement stemmed from Bondi’s failure to deliver more documents linked to the Epstein case. Bongino was said to be frustrated with the lack of progress and transparency, fuelling frustration among MAGA supporters already suspicious of the FBI’s handling of the files. MAGA supporters accuse Patel of hiding Epstein documents Patel’s public denial only added fuel to the fire. A number of right-wing commentators lashed out on social media, accusing him of being part of a cover-up or even being named in the documents himself. “Sounds like you might be in the files, Kash,” wrote the account Polling USA. “Release the Epstein files!” posted Republicans Against Trump, referencing Patel’s own previous comments that the files were under the “direct control of the FBI director.” Right-wing lawyer Robert Barnes also criticised Patel, posting: “It was YOU who said Bill Gates is in #EpsteinFiles & now YOU are hiding those files. Inexcusable!” Trump calls for focus on ‘real priorities’ Donald Trump stepped in on Saturday in an attempt to ease the tension. In a post on Truth Social, he appeared to back Patel while calling on his base to focus their energy on Democrat corruption and voter fraud instead of conspiracy theories. “We are about to achieve more in 6 months than any other Administration has achieved in over 100 years… Kash Patel, and the FBI, must be focused on investigating Voter Fraud, Political Corruption, ActBlue, The Rigged and Stolen Election of 2020… instead of spending month after month looking at nothing but the same old, Radical Left inspired Documents on Jeffrey Epstein,” Trump wrote. He also defended Bondi, adding: “LET PAM BONDI DO HER JOB, SHE’S GREAT!” What next for the FBI and the Epstein files? So far, neither Bondi nor Bongino has issued any public comment. The FBI also did not respond to media requests for a statement. Meanwhile, the internal fallout has revealed growing cracks within Trump’s team, especially as pressure from the MAGA base intensifies.

Patel also added that there was no “smoking gun” in the Epstein documents, pushing back against long-standing conspiracy theories about a secret client list linked to the disgraced financier.

‘Sounds like you’re in the list’: MAGA turns on Trump's FBI chief Kash Patel over Epstein files

The United States Secret Service failed to take key steps that might have stopped the assassination attempt on Donald Trump in July 2024, a new report from a government watchdog has found. According to the Government Accountability Office (GAO), there were serious lapses in communication and planning that left the 47th US president vulnerable during his campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-trump-to-announce-major-russia-move-tomorrow-what-s-next-for-kyiv-and-moscow-1752408988579">Trump to announce ‘major’ Russia move tomorrow: What's next for Kyiv and Moscow?</a><h2>Secret Service missed warnings and failed to share threat information</h2>The report revealed that senior Secret Service officials were aware of a possible threat to Trump’s life ahead of the 13 July rally. However, due to what the report called a “siloed practice for sharing classified threat information,” this intelligence was not passed down to agents on the ground or local law enforcement. The threat “was not specific to the July 13 rally or gunman,” the GAO clarified, but warned that changes are needed to avoid similar failures in future.“Making changes to Secret Service policies to require it to proactively share threat information internally could help ensure its agents and partners will have information needed to provide effective protection,” the report recommended.<h2>A series of failures in communication and planning</h2>The investigation also uncovered broader failures in how the agency prepared for the event. There was “a lack of specific and complete guidance” for Secret Service personnel responsible for securing the rally site, the report found. It also noted weaknesses in training and resource allocation. Some agents reportedly had poor mobile phone signals at the rally, making communication difficult during the attack.<h2>Grassley blames “years of mismanagement”</h2>The review was requested by Senate Judiciary Chair Chuck Grassley, who released the report on Saturday. In a strong statement, Grassley said the attack on Trump was made possible by “a series of bad decisions and bureaucratic handicaps.”He added, “The Secret Service’s failure on July 13th was the culmination of years of mismanagement and came after the Biden administration denied requests for enhanced security to protect President Trump. Americans should be grateful that President Trump survived that day and was ultimately reelected to restore common sense to our country.”<h2>What happened during the assassination attempt?</h2>The attempt on Trump’s life took place during a campaign rally. A gunman fired eight shots, one of which grazed Trump’s ear. One supporter, Corey Comperatore, was killed, and two others were injured before a Secret Service counter-sniper shot and killed the attacker. Following the attack, many questioned how the shooter managed to get into position without being detected.<h2>Funding boost may help fix systemic issues</h2>Grassley pointed to $1.17 billion in new funding for the Secret Service included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. As chair of the Judiciary Committee, he said it was his responsibility to ensure this money is used to “repair what’s broken.” “I’m hopeful this significant injection of resources will go a long way in bringing the agency up to speed,” he added. The Secret Service and the White House have not yet responded publicly to the report.

The attempt on Trump’s life took place during a campaign rally. A gunman fired eight shots, one of which grazed Trump’s ear. One supporter, Corey Comperatore, was killed, and two others were injured before a Secret Service counter-sniper shot and killed the attacker.

The United States Secret Service failed to take key steps that might have stopped the assassination attempt on Donald Trump in July 2024, a new report from a government watchdog has found. According to the Government Accountability Office (GAO), there were serious lapses in communication and planning that left the 47th US president vulnerable during his campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Also read: Trump to announce ‘major’ Russia move tomorrow: What's next for Kyiv and Moscow? Secret Service missed warnings and failed to share threat information The report revealed that senior Secret Service officials were aware of a possible threat to Trump’s life ahead of the 13 July rally. However, due to what the report called a “siloed practice for sharing classified threat information,” this intelligence was not passed down to agents on the ground or local law enforcement. The threat “was not specific to the July 13 rally or gunman,” the GAO clarified, but warned that changes are needed to avoid similar failures in future. “Making changes to Secret Service policies to require it to proactively share threat information internally could help ensure its agents and partners will have information needed to provide effective protection,” the report recommended. A series of failures in communication and planning The investigation also uncovered broader failures in how the agency prepared for the event. There was “a lack of specific and complete guidance” for Secret Service personnel responsible for securing the rally site, the report found. It also noted weaknesses in training and resource allocation. Some agents reportedly had poor mobile phone signals at the rally, making communication difficult during the attack. Grassley blames “years of mismanagement” The review was requested by Senate Judiciary Chair Chuck Grassley, who released the report on Saturday. In a strong statement, Grassley said the attack on Trump was made possible by “a series of bad decisions and bureaucratic handicaps.” He added, “The Secret Service’s failure on July 13th was the culmination of years of mismanagement and came after the Biden administration denied requests for enhanced security to protect President Trump. Americans should be grateful that President Trump survived that day and was ultimately reelected to restore common sense to our country.” What happened during the assassination attempt? The attempt on Trump’s life took place during a campaign rally. A gunman fired eight shots, one of which grazed Trump’s ear. One supporter, Corey Comperatore, was killed, and two others were injured before a Secret Service counter-sniper shot and killed the attacker. Following the attack, many questioned how the shooter managed to get into position without being detected. Funding boost may help fix systemic issues Grassley pointed to $1.17 billion in new funding for the Secret Service included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. As chair of the Judiciary Committee, he said it was his responsibility to ensure this money is used to “repair what’s broken.” “I’m hopeful this significant injection of resources will go a long way in bringing the agency up to speed,” he added. The Secret Service and the White House have not yet responded publicly to the report.

The attempt on Trump’s life took place during a campaign rally. A gunman fired eight shots, one of which grazed Trump’s ear. One supporter, Corey Comperatore, was killed, and two others were injured before a Secret Service counter-sniper shot and killed the attacker.

Could Trump assassination attempt have been stopped? Secret Service officials were aware of threat to Trump’s life, says report

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Jul 12) publicly scolded his most loyal supporters for attacking his administration over its handling of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein — a case that has long fuelled conspiracy theories across the American far-right. In a lengthy post on his Truth Social platform, Trump defended Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, amid fierce backlash from MAGA influencers over the Justice Department's announcement last week that it had found no 'client list' or evidence of blackmail in its Epstein probe. The report also concluded, once again, that Epstein died by suicide in a New York prison in 2019.<h2>What's going on with my 'boys' and 'gals'</h2>Taking to Truth Social, Trump questioned, "What's going on with my 'boys' and, in some cases, 'gals?'." Defending Bondi, he added, "They're all going after Attorney General Pam Bondi, who is doing a FANTASTIC JOB!""We're on one Team, MAGA, and I don't like what's happening," Trump wrote using the acronym his 'Make America Great Again' movement. "We have a PERFECT Administration, THE TALK OF THE WORLD, and 'selfish people' are trying to hurt it, all over a guy who never dies, Jeffrey Epstein," he added.<h2>Far-right erupts after DOJ closes Epstein probe</h2>The statement came after prominent right-wing influencers, including Alex Jones and Laura Loomer, tore into the Trump administration's top legal officials for what they described as a cover-up. Loomer called for Bondi to be fired, labelling her "an embarrassment". Meanwhile, Jones fumed: "Next the DOJ will say ‘Actually, Jeffrey Epstein never even existed’," adding, "This is over the top sickening."Dan Bongino, a powerful pro-Trump media figure and former Secret Service agent, was reportedly so enraged by the DOJ's statement that he threatened to resign from his role as FBI deputy director — a post to which Trump appointed him earlier this year.But Trump pushed back against his own base, and said, "For years, it's Epstein, over and over again...Let's...not waste Time and Energy on Jeffrey Epstein, somebody that nobody cares about." Urging his MAGA movement to focus on "the Rigged and Stolen Election of 2020," he said "instead of spending month after month looking at nothing but the same old, Radical Left inspired Documents on Jeffrey Epstein. LET PAM BONDI DO HER JOB — SHE'S GREAT!"Trump also claimed the renewed focus on Epstein — who was previously photographed with him at parties in the 1990s — was a hoax pushed by Democrats for political gain. While Trump has denied any wrongdoing or links to Epstein’s alleged network of elite abusers, conspiracy theorists have long accused the government of covering up Epstein’s ties to powerful figures, including politicians, royalty, and CEOs.

In a lengthy post on Truth Social Trump defended Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, amid fierce backlash from MAGA influencers over the Justice Department's announcement last week that it had found no 'client list' or evidence of blackmail in its Epstein probe

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Jul 12) publicly scolded his most loyal supporters for attacking his administration over its handling of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein — a case that has long fuelled conspiracy theories across the American far-right. In a lengthy post on his Truth Social platform, Trump defended Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, amid fierce backlash from MAGA influencers over the Justice Department's announcement last week that it had found no 'client list' or evidence of blackmail in its Epstein probe. The report also concluded, once again, that Epstein died by suicide in a New York prison in 2019. What's going on with my 'boys' and 'gals' Taking to Truth Social, Trump questioned, "What's going on with my 'boys' and, in some cases, 'gals?'." Defending Bondi, he added, "They're all going after Attorney General Pam Bondi, who is doing a FANTASTIC JOB!" "We're on one Team, MAGA, and I don't like what's happening," Trump wrote using the acronym his 'Make America Great Again' movement. "We have a PERFECT Administration, THE TALK OF THE WORLD, and 'selfish people' are trying to hurt it, all over a guy who never dies, Jeffrey Epstein," he added. Far-right erupts after DOJ closes Epstein probe The statement came after prominent right-wing influencers, including Alex Jones and Laura Loomer, tore into the Trump administration's top legal officials for what they described as a cover-up. Loomer called for Bondi to be fired, labelling her "an embarrassment". Meanwhile, Jones fumed: "Next the DOJ will say ‘Actually, Jeffrey Epstein never even existed’," adding, "This is over the top sickening." Dan Bongino, a powerful pro-Trump media figure and former Secret Service agent, was reportedly so enraged by the DOJ's statement that he threatened to resign from his role as FBI deputy director — a post to which Trump appointed him earlier this year. But Trump pushed back against his own base, and said, "For years, it's Epstein, over and over again...Let's...not waste Time and Energy on Jeffrey Epstein, somebody that nobody cares about." Urging his MAGA movement to focus on "the Rigged and Stolen Election of 2020," he said "instead of spending month after month looking at nothing but the same old, Radical Left inspired Documents on Jeffrey Epstein. LET PAM BONDI DO HER JOB — SHE'S GREAT!" Trump also claimed the renewed focus on Epstein — who was previously photographed with him at parties in the 1990s — was a hoax pushed by Democrats for political gain. While Trump has denied any wrongdoing or links to Epstein’s alleged network of elite abusers, conspiracy theorists have long accused the government of covering up Epstein’s ties to powerful figures, including politicians, royalty, and CEOs.

In a lengthy post on Truth Social, Trump defended Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, amid fierce backlash from MAGA influencers over the Justice Department's announcement last week that it had found no 'client list' or evidence of blackmail in its Epstein probe

Trump scolds MAGA base over Epstein files outrage: 'LET PAM BONDI DO HER JOB — SHE'S GREAT!'

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov for a second time in two days on Friday, with the war in Ukraine dominating the talks. The meetings, held on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in Malaysia, come amid rising tensions and renewed Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities.Donald Trump, who pledged to end the war within 24 hours of taking office, is now more than four months into his term without any breakthrough. Rubio admitted that Trump is “disappointed and frustrated that there’s not been more flexibility on the Russian side” to end the war.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-russia-turning-on-iran-putin-secretly-backs-zero-enrichment-nuclear-deal-1752345199129">Is Russia turning on Iran? Putin secretly backs ‘zero enrichment’&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;deal</a><h2>So, where does Trump go from here?</h2>In recent weeks, Trump has been more openly critical of Vladimir Putin. “We get a lot of b**t thrown at us by Putin. He’s very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless,” Trump told reporters earlier this week. The US has hosted separate talks with Ukraine and Russia and even brought both sides together in Istanbul in May. However, while Ukraine has agreed to a proposed 30-day ceasefire, Russia has rejected it, claiming Kyiv could use it to regroup and rearm. When asked if he planned to act on his frustration with Putin, Trump said, “I wouldn’t be telling you. Don’t we want to have a little surprise?”<h2>After pausing weapons, Trump now sends arms again</h2>Trump’s approach to military aid has also shifted. After pausing weapons to Ukraine in early July, he reversed the decision a week later. “We’re going to send some more weapons. We have to. They have to be able to defend themselves,” Trump said on 8 July. He added that NATO would pay for the weapons, which the alliance would then pass on to Ukraine, “We’re sending weapons to NATO, and NATO is paying for those weapons, a hundred per cent.” This deal, he said, was reached during the June NATO summit in The Hague.Trump had also frozen aid to Ukraine in February following a falling-out with President Zelensky, accusing him of pushing the US into a “war that couldn’t be won.” Still, military supplies resumed weeks later. The US has now sent around $134 billion in aid to Ukraine since 2022.<h2>Trump considers new sanctions, but will he follow through?</h2>Trump has also hinted at supporting new sanctions on Russia. “I’m looking at it very strongly,” he said on 8 July when asked about a new sanctions bill. Since 2022, the US and allies have hit Russia with over 21,000 sanctions. But while the economy has taken a hit, it has not collapsed. Ukraine continues to push for more pressure. “Sanctions must be strengthened,” Zelensky said after a Russian drone strike in Kharkiv.A bill sponsored by Senator Lindsey Graham proposes tariffs on countries buying Russian oil, gas, or uranium, key exports for Moscow. But with countries like China, India and Türkiye still major buyers, and even Europe still purchasing Russian uranium, the impact may be limited unless more action is taken.Trump previously threatened “secondary tariffs” on nations buying Russian oil but has yet to follow through. Keir Giles noted, “If this actually happens, it would be a radical departure from Trump’s consistent policy.”<h2>Will Trump walk away from the conflict?</h2>In April, Rubio suggested the US might “move on” if no ceasefire deal is reached. “It’s not our war. We have other priorities to focus on,” he said. Trump repeated those comments but stopped short of saying he would walk away entirely. “Well, I don’t want to say that, but we want to see it end,” he said. Despite frustration, Washington hasn’t abandoned diplomacy. Rubio said the US and Russia had exchanged new ideas. “It’s a new and a different approach… I’ll take back to the president,” he said.

Donald Trump, who pledged to end the war within 24 hours of taking office, is now more than four months into his term without any breakthrough. Rubio admitted that Trump is “disappointed and frustrated that there’s not been more flexibility on the Russian side” to end the war.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov for a second time in two days on Friday, with the war in Ukraine dominating the talks. The meetings, held on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in Malaysia, come amid rising tensions and renewed Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities. Donald Trump, who pledged to end the war within 24 hours of taking office, is now more than four months into his term without any breakthrough. Rubio admitted that Trump is “disappointed and frustrated that there’s not been more flexibility on the Russian side” to end the war. Also read: Is Russia turning on Iran? Putin secretly backs ‘zero enrichment’ nuclear deal So, where does Trump go from here? In recent weeks, Trump has been more openly critical of Vladimir Putin. “We get a lot of b**t thrown at us by Putin. He’s very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless,” Trump told reporters earlier this week. The US has hosted separate talks with Ukraine and Russia and even brought both sides together in Istanbul in May. However, while Ukraine has agreed to a proposed 30-day ceasefire, Russia has rejected it, claiming Kyiv could use it to regroup and rearm. When asked if he planned to act on his frustration with Putin, Trump said, “I wouldn’t be telling you. Don’t we want to have a little surprise?” After pausing weapons, Trump now sends arms again Trump’s approach to military aid has also shifted. After pausing weapons to Ukraine in early July, he reversed the decision a week later. “We’re going to send some more weapons. We have to. They have to be able to defend themselves,” Trump said on 8 July. He added that NATO would pay for the weapons, which the alliance would then pass on to Ukraine, “We’re sending weapons to NATO, and NATO is paying for those weapons, a hundred per cent.” This deal, he said, was reached during the June NATO summit in The Hague. Trump had also frozen aid to Ukraine in February following a falling-out with President Zelensky, accusing him of pushing the US into a “war that couldn’t be won.” Still, military supplies resumed weeks later. The US has now sent around $134 billion in aid to Ukraine since 2022. Trump considers new sanctions, but will he follow through? Trump has also hinted at supporting new sanctions on Russia. “I’m looking at it very strongly,” he said on 8 July when asked about a new sanctions bill. Since 2022, the US and allies have hit Russia with over 21,000 sanctions. But while the economy has taken a hit, it has not collapsed. Ukraine continues to push for more pressure. “Sanctions must be strengthened,” Zelensky said after a Russian drone strike in Kharkiv. A bill sponsored by Senator Lindsey Graham proposes tariffs on countries buying Russian oil, gas, or uranium, key exports for Moscow. But with countries like China, India and Türkiye still major buyers, and even Europe still purchasing Russian uranium, the impact may be limited unless more action is taken. Trump previously threatened “secondary tariffs” on nations buying Russian oil but has yet to follow through. Keir Giles noted, “If this actually happens, it would be a radical departure from Trump’s consistent policy.” Will Trump walk away from the conflict? In April, Rubio suggested the US might “move on” if no ceasefire deal is reached. “It’s not our war. We have other priorities to focus on,” he said. Trump repeated those comments but stopped short of saying he would walk away entirely. “Well, I don’t want to say that, but we want to see it end,” he said. Despite frustration, Washington hasn’t abandoned diplomacy. Rubio said the US and Russia had exchanged new ideas. “It’s a new and a different approach… I’ll take back to the president,” he said.

Donald Trump, who pledged to end the war within 24 hours of taking office, is now more than four months into his term without any breakthrough. Rubio admitted that Trump is “disappointed and frustrated that there’s not been more flexibility on the Russian side” to end the war.

Trump frustrated with Putin as Ukraine war drags on - Will he send weapons, tighten sanctions, or walk away? | Explained

US President Donald Trump was ridiculed on Friday morning after he appeared to mistake an old Fox News clip for a live broadcast while praising one of his close allies online.<h2>Trump praises Hegseth for ‘live’ TV appearance that wasn’t live</h2>Posting on his Truth Social platform at 9:36 am, Trump wrote, “Secretary of War Pete Hegseth was great on Fox News this morning. Talking about modern weapons and warfare. Thank you also to Brett Velicovich, who really knows his ‘stuff.’ We are really on our way. MAGA!”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-unfortunately-far-from-reciprocal-donald-trump-slaps-30-tariffs-on-goods-from-the-eu-and-mexico-1752328444362">'Unfortunately, far from Reciprocal': Donald Trump slaps 30% tariffs on goods from the EU and Mexico</a>However, the video of Hegseth, a former Fox News host and current Secretary of Defence under Trump, was actually recorded a day earlier and had aired in pre-recorded segments on Friday morning.<h2>What was in the Hegseth video?</h2>In the video, which had originally been posted to Hegseth’s official X account on Thursday, he stands on the Pentagon’s lawn while drones hover around him. At one point, a drone delivers a memo, which he theatrically signs, saying he has ordered fast-track production and deployment of military drones.Fox News aired the same clip four times between 5 am and 9:15 am on Friday:• Once on Fox &amp; Friends First• Twice on Fox &amp; Friends• Once more on America’s Newsroom at 9:15 a.m.Each time, the network clearly labelled it as Thursday’s footage.<h2>Social media mocks Trump’s apparent mix-up</h2>Online users were quick to poke fun at Trump’s post, suggesting he may have been confused. One user on X commented, “Imagine. If. It. Was. Biden.” Another wrote, “Perhaps a confused Trump thought it was live.” The X account Republicans Against Trump added, “Trump’s cognitive decline is getting hard to ignore.”<h2>Hegseth was travelling on Friday</h2>Despite Trump calling the segment a live appearance, Hegseth was not on live TV on Friday. According to his official schedule, the Defence Secretary was travelling that day. Although the video had been temporarily removed and re-uploaded, Fox News had not suggested at any point that it was being aired live.

Despite Trump calling the segment a live appearance, Hegseth was not on live TV on Friday. According to his official schedule, the Defence Secretary was travelling that day. 

US President Donald Trump was ridiculed on Friday morning after he appeared to mistake an old Fox News clip for a live broadcast while praising one of his close allies online. Trump praises Hegseth for ‘live’ TV appearance that wasn’t live Posting on his Truth Social platform at 9:36 am, Trump wrote, “Secretary of War Pete Hegseth was great on Fox News this morning. Talking about modern weapons and warfare. Thank you also to Brett Velicovich, who really knows his ‘stuff.’ We are really on our way. MAGA!” Also read: 'Unfortunately, far from Reciprocal': Donald Trump slaps 30% tariffs on goods from the EU and Mexico However, the video of Hegseth, a former Fox News host and current Secretary of Defence under Trump, was actually recorded a day earlier and had aired in pre-recorded segments on Friday morning. What was in the Hegseth video? In the video, which had originally been posted to Hegseth’s official X account on Thursday, he stands on the Pentagon’s lawn while drones hover around him. At one point, a drone delivers a memo, which he theatrically signs, saying he has ordered fast-track production and deployment of military drones. Fox News aired the same clip four times between 5 am and 9:15 am on Friday: • Once on Fox & Friends First • Twice on Fox & Friends • Once more on America’s Newsroom at 9:15 a.m. Each time, the network clearly labelled it as Thursday’s footage. Social media mocks Trump’s apparent mix-up Online users were quick to poke fun at Trump’s post, suggesting he may have been confused. One user on X commented, “Imagine. If. It. Was. Biden.” Another wrote, “Perhaps a confused Trump thought it was live.” The X account Republicans Against Trump added, “Trump’s cognitive decline is getting hard to ignore.” Hegseth was travelling on Friday Despite Trump calling the segment a live appearance, Hegseth was not on live TV on Friday. According to his official schedule, the Defence Secretary was travelling that day. Although the video had been temporarily removed and re-uploaded, Fox News had not suggested at any point that it was being aired live.

Despite Trump calling the segment a live appearance, Hegseth was not on live TV on Friday. According to his official schedule, the Defence Secretary was travelling that day.&nbsp;

'Imagine. If. It. Was. Biden': Trump ridiculed for 'imagining' he saw Hegseth live on TV

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (July 12) announced steep new tariffs on goods coming from the European Union and Mexico, increasing tensions over global trade.<h2>New 30% tariff on imports from EU and Mexico</h2>In letters posted to his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump revealed that a 30% tariff will apply to goods imported from both the European Union and Mexico starting 1 August. The decision surprised many, as earlier reports had suggested the rate could be closer to 10%.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doj-s-epstein-files-prison-video-wasn-t-raw-report-says-it-was-edited-in-premiere-pro-1752320677841">'Nearly impossible to explain': DOJ’s Epstein prison video wasn’t ‘raw’, report says it was edited in Premiere Pro</a><h2>Mexico praised but warned</h2>In his message to Mexico’s leadership, Trump said the country had helped reduce the flow of undocumented migrants and fentanyl into the United States. But he added that Mexico hadn’t done enough to prevent the region from becoming a “Narco-Trafficking Playground.”<h2>EU accused of unfair trade</h2>Trump criticised the EU’s trade practices, accusing the bloc of maintaining long-term and one-sided tariffs. “Our relationship has been, unfortunately, far from Reciprocal,” he said. “We must move away from these long-term, large, and persistent Trade Deficits, engendered by your Tariff, and Non-Tariff, Policies, and Trade Barriers,” Trump added.<h2>Fears of trade war grow in Europe</h2>European officials were hoping to ease trade tensions and finalise a deal, but Trump’s new tariff announcement has thrown those hopes into doubt. The 30% rate is much higher than what the European trade commissioner Maroš Šefčovič was believed to have negotiated. European products such as Belgian chocolate, Irish butter, and Italian olive oil could be hit hardest, sparking fears of a trade war.<h2>EU expected to demand fresh talks</h2>While the EU had reached a deal in principle, sources told The Guardian it was only three pages long and not legally binding. Now, Brussels is expected to call for new negotiations, believing Trump is using the tariff threat to pressure the bloc for better terms. Trump has previously called the EU “nastier” than China in trade matters.The UK’s recent trade agreement with the US took seven weeks to be formally registered. That deal reduced car export tariffs but left out key pledges on British steel. Creating a formal, legal version of the EU deal could face similar delays and complications.The announcement ends a week of mixed signals from Trump. On Monday, he extended talks with the EU until 1 August. Then on Tuesday, he said the bloc would “probably” get a letter setting new tariffs within 48 hours.

In letters posted to his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump revealed that a 30% tariff will apply to goods imported from both the European Union and Mexico starting 1 August. The decision surprised many, as earlier reports had suggested the rate could be closer to 10%.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (July 12) announced steep new tariffs on goods coming from the European Union and Mexico, increasing tensions over global trade. New 30% tariff on imports from EU and Mexico In letters posted to his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump revealed that a 30% tariff will apply to goods imported from both the European Union and Mexico starting 1 August. The decision surprised many, as earlier reports had suggested the rate could be closer to 10%. Also read: 'Nearly impossible to explain': DOJ’s Epstein prison video wasn’t ‘raw’, report says it was edited in Premiere Pro Mexico praised but warned In his message to Mexico’s leadership, Trump said the country had helped reduce the flow of undocumented migrants and fentanyl into the United States. But he added that Mexico hadn’t done enough to prevent the region from becoming a “Narco-Trafficking Playground.” EU accused of unfair trade Trump criticised the EU’s trade practices, accusing the bloc of maintaining long-term and one-sided tariffs. “Our relationship has been, unfortunately, far from Reciprocal,” he said. “We must move away from these long-term, large, and persistent Trade Deficits, engendered by your Tariff, and Non-Tariff, Policies, and Trade Barriers,” Trump added. Fears of trade war grow in Europe European officials were hoping to ease trade tensions and finalise a deal, but Trump’s new tariff announcement has thrown those hopes into doubt. The 30% rate is much higher than what the European trade commissioner Maroš Šefčovič was believed to have negotiated. European products such as Belgian chocolate, Irish butter, and Italian olive oil could be hit hardest, sparking fears of a trade war. EU expected to demand fresh talks While the EU had reached a deal in principle, sources told The Guardian it was only three pages long and not legally binding. Now, Brussels is expected to call for new negotiations, believing Trump is using the tariff threat to pressure the bloc for better terms. Trump has previously called the EU “nastier” than China in trade matters. The UK’s recent trade agreement with the US took seven weeks to be formally registered. That deal reduced car export tariffs but left out key pledges on British steel. Creating a formal, legal version of the EU deal could face similar delays and complications. The announcement ends a week of mixed signals from Trump. On Monday, he extended talks with the EU until 1 August. Then on Tuesday, he said the bloc would “probably” get a letter setting new tariffs within 48 hours.

In letters posted to his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump revealed that a 30% tariff will apply to goods imported from both the European Union and Mexico starting 1 August. The decision surprised many, as earlier reports had suggested the rate could be closer to 10%.

'Unfortunately, far from Reciprocal': Donald Trump slaps 30% tariffs on goods from the EU and Mexico

Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei issued a stark warning to the United States after the Islamic Republic hit the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. Taking to the social media platform X, the Ayatollah wrote, "The Islamic Republic delivered a hard slap to America's face; it attacked one of its key bases in the region, Al Udeid Air Base, and caused damage."&nbsp;"The fact that Iran has access to America's important centres in the region and can take action against them whenever it deems necessary is not a small event; it is a significant event and one that can be repeated," &nbsp;Khamenei warned.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">جمهوری اسلامی سیلی سختی به گونه آمریکا نواخت؛ به یکی از پایگاههای مهم او در منطقه، پایگاه العُدید، حمله کرد و خساراتی وارد کرد. اینکه ایران دسترسی داشته باشد به مراکز مهم آمریکا در منطقه و هروقت مقتضی دانست علیه آن اقدام کند، حادثه‌ کوچکی نیست، حادثه بزرگی است و قابل تکرار است. <a href="https://t.co/YKJIRjfNlZ">pic.twitter.com/YKJIRjfNlZ</a>&mdash; KHAMENEI.IR | فارسی 🇮🇷 (@Khamenei_fa) <a href="https://twitter.com/Khamenei_fa/status/1943765931710460130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This came a day after Iran launched an attack on the US air base in Doha on Friday (July 11). Although the attack did limited damage to the air base because the US evacuated its aircraft from the base, Associated Press reported.&nbsp;The Pentagon acknowledged that an Iranian ballistic missile hit Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar on June 23 during an Iranian attack after President Donald Trump downplayed the assault.&nbsp;Images taken June 25 and every day subsequently show the dome is gone, with some damage visible on a nearby building. The rest of the base appears largely untouched in the images.&nbsp;In a statement, Parnell said the missile strike “did minimal damage to equipment and structures on the base.”“Al Udeid Air Base remains fully operational and capable of conducting its mission, alongside our Qatari partners, to provide security and stability in the region,” he added, AP reported.&nbsp;This came after the US President Donald Trump downplayed the Iranian attack during the 12-day Israel-Iran war - which was later joined by America. Trump called the Iranian attack a "very weak response" to the US. “I want to thank Iran for giving us early notice, which made it possible for no lives to be lost, and nobody to be injured,” he wrote on his social media Truth Social.&nbsp;

The Pentagon acknowledged that an Iranian ballistic missile hit Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar on June 23 during an Iranian attack after President Donald Trump downplayed the assault.



Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei issued a stark warning to the United States after the Islamic Republic hit the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. Taking to the social media platform X, the Ayatollah wrote, "The Islamic Republic delivered a hard slap to America's face; it attacked one of its key bases in the region, Al Udeid Air Base, and caused damage." "The fact that Iran has access to America's important centres in the region and can take action against them whenever it deems necessary is not a small event; it is a significant event and one that can be repeated," Khamenei warned.

The Pentagon acknowledged that an Iranian ballistic missile hit Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar on June 23 during an Iranian attack after President Donald Trump downplayed the assault.&nbsp;

'Can be REPEATED': Khamenei's chilling warning for Trump after hitting Al Udeid Air Base, says 'Iran has access to...'

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said that he is willing to meet any US tariffs imposed on Brazil. Lula was reacting to Wednesday's warning by his US counterpart Donald Trump to slap a 50% import duty on Brazilian imports from August 1. Trump, in a letter, used the reason of Brazil's handling of former President Jair Bolsonaro as a pretext for tariff-increase.&nbsp;Bolsonaro stands on trial for purportedly trying to orchestrate a coup against Lula following his loss to the latter in the 2022 election. Trump termed Bolsonaro "a highly respected leader all over the globe". "This Trial should not be occurring," he said, urging Brazil to put an end to the "witch hunt" of the previous president immediately.&nbsp;Trump's endorsement of Bolsonaro is not surprising since the two have been allies for a long time.The US leader had already criticised Brazil for its handling of Bolsonaro on Monday (July 7), likening it to the lawsuits that he himself had been subjected to in US courts. The 50% tariff threat was countered by a strong and lengthy statement from president Lula.&nbsp;On an X post, he emphasised that Brazil was "a sovereign nation with autonomous institutions and will not accept tutelage" of any sort. The Brazilian president also declared that "any unilateral tariffs increases" would have reciprocal tariffs imposed on American products.&nbsp;The US is Brazil's second-biggest trade partner only after China, so the increase from a 10% tariff to an eye-watering 50% - if implemented - would severely impact the South American country. However, Lula also took pains to counter Trump's claim that the US suffered a trade deficit with Brazil and described it as "inaccurate".&nbsp;Lula's response is supported by US government statistics, which indicate the US enjoyed a goods trade surplus with Brazil worth $7.4bn (£5.4bn) in 2024. Brazil ranks as the US's 15th biggest trading partner and one of its major US imports is mineral fuels, aircraft and machinery. In return, the US imports gas and petroleum, iron, and coffee from Brazil.&nbsp;Brazil was not the sole nation targeted by Trump on Wednesday (July 9). Japan, South Korea and Sri Lanka were among 22 countries that were sent letters threatening higher tariffs. However, it was the only letter sent by Trump to his Brazilian counterpart which addressed issues other than reported trade deficits.&nbsp;Besides condemning the way ex-president Bolsonaro was treated, Trump also criticised what he described as "secret and illegal censorship orders to US social media companies" which he claimed Brazil had levied. Trump Media, owner of US president Truth Social platform and majority-owned by Trump, is one of the US tech firms battling Brazilian court decisions regarding suspension order social media account suspensions.&nbsp;Lula pushed back on that front as well, defending the judgments by claiming that "Brazilian society repudiates hateful speech, racism, child pornography, frauds, swindles, and speeches against human rights and democratic liberty".

Brazil president Lula vows retaliation as Trump threatens 50% tariff on Brazilian goods

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said that he is willing to meet any US tariffs imposed on Brazil. Lula was reacting to Wednesday's warning by his US counterpart Donald Trump to slap a 50% import duty on Brazilian imports from August 1. Trump, in a letter, used the reason of Brazil's handling of former President Jair Bolsonaro as a pretext for tariff-increase. Bolsonaro stands on trial for purportedly trying to orchestrate a coup against Lula following his loss to the latter in the 2022 election. Trump termed Bolsonaro "a highly respected leader all over the globe". "This Trial should not be occurring," he said, urging Brazil to put an end to the "witch hunt" of the previous president immediately. Trump's endorsement of Bolsonaro is not surprising since the two have been allies for a long time. The US leader had already criticised Brazil for its handling of Bolsonaro on Monday (July 7), likening it to the lawsuits that he himself had been subjected to in US courts. The 50% tariff threat was countered by a strong and lengthy statement from president Lula. On an X post, he emphasised that Brazil was "a sovereign nation with autonomous institutions and will not accept tutelage" of any sort. The Brazilian president also declared that "any unilateral tariffs increases" would have reciprocal tariffs imposed on American products. The US is Brazil's second-biggest trade partner only after China, so the increase from a 10% tariff to an eye-watering 50% - if implemented - would severely impact the South American country. However, Lula also took pains to counter Trump's claim that the US suffered a trade deficit with Brazil and described it as "inaccurate". Lula's response is supported by US government statistics, which indicate the US enjoyed a goods trade surplus with Brazil worth $7.4bn (£5.4bn) in 2024. Brazil ranks as the US's 15th biggest trading partner and one of its major US imports is mineral fuels, aircraft and machinery. In return, the US imports gas and petroleum, iron, and coffee from Brazil. Brazil was not the sole nation targeted by Trump on Wednesday (July 9). Japan, South Korea and Sri Lanka were among 22 countries that were sent letters threatening higher tariffs. However, it was the only letter sent by Trump to his Brazilian counterpart which addressed issues other than reported trade deficits. Besides condemning the way ex-president Bolsonaro was treated, Trump also criticised what he described as "secret and illegal censorship orders to US social media companies" which he claimed Brazil had levied. Trump Media, owner of US president Truth Social platform and majority-owned by Trump, is one of the US tech firms battling Brazilian court decisions regarding suspension order social media account suspensions. Lula pushed back on that front as well, defending the judgments by claiming that "Brazilian society repudiates hateful speech, racism, child pornography, frauds, swindles, and speeches against human rights and democratic liberty".

The Brazilian president was responding to Wednesday's threat by his US counterpart, Donald Trump, to impose a 50% import tax on Brazilian goods from August 1

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