#GRAVITAS |  U.S. President Donald Trump has announced plans to introduce a $5M “gold card” programme for wealthy foreigners, granting them the right to live and work in the country with a pathway to citizenship which also includes Russian Oligarchs. Meanwhile, Russian Media compared trump with the leader of the dying soviet union Mikhail Gorbachev as they called Trump's ambitious MAGA or Make America Great Again -
the American Perestroika. Watch this video to find out more.

Trump's $5-million 'gold card' visa plan for ultra-rich

US President Donald Trump today shared an AI-generated video of Gaza. The video includes images of Gaza transformed into a futuristic city, featuring a shiny Trump Tower and a giant Trump statue. Watch in for more details!

Trump shares AI visuals of how Gaza would look

The White House confirmed on Tuesday (Feb 26) that Amy Gleason is serving as the acting administrator for the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).&nbsp;
This comes after US President Donald Trump's administration has been facing pressure to disclose the identity of the official formally in charge of DOGE, particularly after court filings clarified that billionaire Elon Musk, whom Trump previously claimed was overseeing the department, had no direct authority over the cost-cutting initiative.
A White House official said that Gleason, a former US Digital Service official, will now lead the department that Trump established via executive order after taking office in January.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-20-civil-service-employees-resigned-from-trumps-doge-in-protest-8758303">Over 20 civil service employees resigned from Trump&rsquo;s DOGE in protest</a>
Musk is an employee of the &ldquo;White House Office&rdquo; and serves as senior adviser to the president, according to Joshua Fisher, director of the White House Office of Administration.&nbsp;
This announcement came after more than 20 members of the former US Digital service, the agency that was renamed the US DOGE service, resigned on Tuesday and gave a letter criticising Musk for working to "dismantle critical public services".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-love-it-trump-backs-idea-of-sending-some-savings-from-doge-back-to-us-citizens-8741573">&lsquo;I love it&rsquo;: Trump backs idea of sending some savings from DOGE back to US citizens</a>
<h2>Who is Amy Gleason?</h2>
Amy Gleason, a former US Digital Service official, is a low-profile executive, who has expertise in healthcare technology.&nbsp;
The 53-year-old also worked in the first Trump administration.&nbsp;
She served in the United States Digital Service from 2018 to 2021, according to her LinkedIn profile.&nbsp;
During that tenure, she worked with the White House on the federal response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Later, she returned to the agency in January after Trump took office.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/they-dress-in-t-shirts-trump-mocks-genius-doge-staffers-who-dress-worse-than-elon-musk-8736789">&lsquo;They dress in T-shirts&rsquo;: Trump mocks &lsquo;genius&rsquo; DOGE staffers who dress &lsquo;worse than Elon Musk&rsquo;</a>
As she has expertise in healthcare, she served as the vice president for research at the Cure JM Foundation from 2014 to 2018.&nbsp;
Gleason also co-founded and served as an executive of the Florida-based telemedicine startup Care Sync.&nbsp;
She has also advocated for the cure of juvenile myositis, a rare autoimmune illness that causes muscle weakness and a rash in children. Her adult daughter also has this disease.&nbsp;
Currently, she is responsible for driving the DOGE agenda of simplifying government operations through personnel reductions, contract terminations, and budgetary reductions.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-warns-federal-workers-to-return-to-office-or-be-put-on-administrative-leave-8753283">Musk warns federal workers to return to office or be put on administrative leave</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: White House official said that Gleason now leads the department that Trump established via executive order after taking office in January.

The White House confirmed on Tuesday (Feb 26) that Amy Gleason is serving as the acting administrator for the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This comes after US President Donald Trump's administration has been facing pressure to disclose the identity of the official formally in charge of DOGE, particularly after court filings clarified that billionaire Elon Musk, whom Trump previously claimed was overseeing the department, had no direct authority over the cost-cutting initiative. A White House official said that Gleason, a former US Digital Service official, will now lead the department that Trump established via executive order after taking office in January. Also read: Over 20 civil service employees resigned from Trump’s DOGE in protest Musk is an employee of the “White House Office” and serves as senior adviser to the president, according to Joshua Fisher, director of the White House Office of Administration. This announcement came after more than 20 members of the former US Digital service, the agency that was renamed the US DOGE service, resigned on Tuesday and gave a letter criticising Musk for working to "dismantle critical public services". Also read: ‘I love it’: Trump backs idea of sending some savings from DOGE back to US citizens Who is Amy Gleason? Amy Gleason, a former US Digital Service official, is a low-profile executive, who has expertise in healthcare technology. The 53-year-old also worked in the first Trump administration. She served in the United States Digital Service from 2018 to 2021, according to her LinkedIn profile. During that tenure, she worked with the White House on the federal response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Later, she returned to the agency in January after Trump took office. Also read: ‘They dress in T-shirts’: Trump mocks ‘genius’ DOGE staffers who dress ‘worse than Elon Musk’ As she has expertise in healthcare, she served as the vice president for research at the Cure JM Foundation from 2014 to 2018. Gleason also co-founded and served as an executive of the Florida-based telemedicine startup Care Sync. She has also advocated for the cure of juvenile myositis, a rare autoimmune illness that causes muscle weakness and a rash in children. Her adult daughter also has this disease. Currently, she is responsible for driving the DOGE agenda of simplifying government operations through personnel reductions, contract terminations, and budgetary reductions. Also read: Musk warns federal workers to return to office or be put on administrative leave (With inputs from agencies)

Not Elon Musk but Amy Gleason now leads Trump's DOGE. Who is she?

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to visit the United States for crucial talks aimed at bridging the gap between Europe and Donald Trump's administration. With the ongoing Ukraine conflict at the center of discussions, Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron have praised Trump’s efforts toward “durable peace.” The visit is expected to shape future transatlantic relations and Europe's role in global security.

UK PM Starmer heads to US for key talks on Ukraine and Europe

The Trump administration is exploring the ‘DOGE Dividend’ plan, a proposal to return $400 billion to taxpayers, giving each eligible American a $5,000 payout. Spearheaded by James Fishback, the plan aims to provide financial relief while using 20% of the savings to reduce national debt.

Trump administration mulls plan to return $400 billion to taxpayers

President Trump announced Tuesday that the US government will soon begin selling $5 million “gold cards” that convey both green-card residency status and a path to American citizenship to foreigners. Watch this report for more details!

Trump: Gold cards to foreigners who want to invest in the US

Trump administration considers $400 billion ‘DOGE dividend’ taxpayer plan

US Consumer sentiment took a sharp dive in February, hitting its lowest point in over a year, largely due to concerns about rising prices, inflation, and tariffs. The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index highlighted that inflation expectations are on the rise, with households now predicting a 4. 3% increase in prices over the next year—the highest level since November 2023.

Why are American consumers penny-pinching?

Global markets are starting to feel the jitters of US President Donald Trump's tariff rhetoric. The cautious sentiment comes after Trump said taxes on Mexican on Canadian imports will 'go ahead. ' while the import tariffs were delayed by a month, the US President's threat comes ahead of Monday's deadline and weighed on markets.

Global markets turn cautious on tariff risks

The US and Ukraine have agreed on key terms for a minerals deal, a move that could reshape global resource supply chains. Reports suggest the agreement may include security guarantees, while officials confirm that a clause deemed unfavorable to the US was removed. Meanwhile, the UK Prime Minister heads to the US to bridge gaps over Ukraine policy. Will this deal strengthen Ukraine’s position or deepen geopolitical tensions?

US and Ukraine finalize minerals deal amid security concerns

The White House is taking control of selecting reporters for the presidential press pool, a move that breaks long-standing traditions. Critics argue this threatens press independence, while Trump’s team insists it ensures fairness.

White House to handpick press pool covering Trump’s events

After Donald Trump's return to the Oval Office, the United States is rewriting the diplomatic playbook. From being Canada's ally to realigning its equations with neighboring countries, Trump's administration is reworking its diplomatic goals, not just with its allies but also with its foes. The leading candidates vying to replace Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau have spent considerable time discussing the need to stand up to U.S. President Donald Trump.
Iran is also preparing to defend its territory. The Islamic Republic has put its defense systems around its nuclear sites on high alert. Reports suggest the new measures are in response to growing concerns of potential joint military action by Israel and the U.S.

The Trump effect: Canadian leaders on edge | Iran on high alert

A seismic shift in global alliances is unfolding rapidly as President Trump rewrites the diplomatic playbook, with old enemies becoming new friends and trusted allies left reeling.

US under Trump may no longer be a reliable partner against Russia

A recent Harvard CAPS/Harris Poll indicates that 58% of voters believe President Trump is performing better than former President Biden. Additionally, Trump holds a 52% approval rating after his first month back in office.

US: Popularity survey shows Trump maintaining popularity

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Tuesday (Feb 25) ruled out the possibility of direct talks with the United States on the nuclear issue.&nbsp;
Araghchi was addressing a joint press conference with his visiting Russian counterpart.
"There will be no possibility of direct talks between us and the United States on the nuclear issue as long as the maximum pressure is applied in this way," the Iranian foreign minister said, referring to US President Donald Trump's hardline approach to Tehran.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-iran-ready-to-move-its-capital-makran-region-eyed-as-potential-new-hub-8732026">Is Iran ready to move its capital? Makran region eyed as potential new hub</a>
<h2>Iran on 'high alert' amid fears of attacks on nuclear sites&nbsp;</h2>
Earlier in the day, Iran put the defence systems around its nuclear sites on high alert amid fears of an attack by Israel and the US, the Telegraph reported.&nbsp;
Iran has been strengthening defences around key nuclear and missile sites, according to two high-level government sources. Moreover, it has deployed additional air defence system launchers.
The officials stated that the measures are in response to growing concerns about potential joint military action by Israel and the US.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-cant-do-a-thing-tehran-slams-netanyahu-for-vowing-to-finish-the-job-against-iran-with-trumps-help-8729162">'Israel can't do a thing': Tehran slams Netanyahu for vowing to 'finish the job' against Iran with Trump's help</a>
Iran revealed a new ballistic missile earlier this month, that it said was capable of travelling 1,700 kilometres.
Iran's missiles, including this newest design, are capable of reaching its arch-foe Israel, which it targeted twice last year as the Gaza war spilled over.
"The development of defence capabilities and space technologies... aims to ensure that no country dares to attack Iranian territory," President Masoud Pezeshkian said in a televised address.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/there-can-never-be-nuclear-iran-netanyahu-rubio-discuss-hamas-trumps-gaza-plan-and-tehrans-aggression-8726530">&lsquo;There can never be nuclear Iran&rsquo;: Netanyahu, Rubio discuss Hamas, Trump&rsquo;s Gaza plan, and Tehran&rsquo;s &lsquo;aggression&rsquo;</a>
As reported by CNN this month, US intelligence agencies have warned both the Biden and Trump administrations that Israel will likely attempt to strike facilities key to Iran's nuclear program this year.
"I would like a deal done with Iran on non-nuclear. I would prefer that to bombing the hell out of it," Trump said in an interview with the New York Post.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-will-rebuild-nuclear-facilities-if-attacked-8720843" rel="dofollow">Iran says will rebuild nuclear facilities if attacked</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Earlier in the day, Iran put its defence systems around its nuclear sites on high alert amid fears of an attack by Israel and the US, the Telegraph reported.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Tuesday (Feb 25) ruled out the possibility of direct talks with the United States on the nuclear issue. Araghchi was addressing a joint press conference with his visiting Russian counterpart. "There will be no possibility of direct talks between us and the United States on the nuclear issue as long as the maximum pressure is applied in this way," the Iranian foreign minister said, referring to US President Donald Trump's hardline approach to Tehran. Also read: Is Iran ready to move its capital? Makran region eyed as potential new hub Iran on 'high alert' amid fears of attacks on nuclear sites Earlier in the day, Iran put the defence systems around its nuclear sites on high alert amid fears of an attack by Israel and the US, the Telegraph reported. Iran has been strengthening defences around key nuclear and missile sites, according to two high-level government sources. Moreover, it has deployed additional air defence system launchers. The officials stated that the measures are in response to growing concerns about potential joint military action by Israel and the US. Also read: 'Israel can't do a thing': Tehran slams Netanyahu for vowing to 'finish the job' against Iran with Trump's help Iran revealed a new ballistic missile earlier this month, that it said was capable of travelling 1,700 kilometres. Iran's missiles, including this newest design, are capable of reaching its arch-foe Israel, which it targeted twice last year as the Gaza war spilled over. "The development of defence capabilities and space technologies... aims to ensure that no country dares to attack Iranian territory," President Masoud Pezeshkian said in a televised address. Also read: ‘There can never be nuclear Iran’: Netanyahu, Rubio discuss Hamas, Trump’s Gaza plan, and Tehran’s ‘aggression’ As reported by CNN this month, US intelligence agencies have warned both the Biden and Trump administrations that Israel will likely attempt to strike facilities key to Iran's nuclear program this year. "I would like a deal done with Iran on non-nuclear. I would prefer that to bombing the hell out of it," Trump said in an interview with the New York Post. Also read: Iran says will rebuild nuclear facilities if attacked (With inputs from agencies)

'No possibility of direct talks': Iran on 'high alert' amid fears of attacks on nuclear sites by US, Israel

US President Donald Trump hosted French leader Emmanuel Macron at the White House on the third anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Both leaders discussed the 'progress' made between countries on peace talks concerning the Russia-Ukraine war.

Trump-Macron meets: Macron says, 'Want a quick deal, but not a fragile one'

Amid the row over alleged U.S. aid funding to India, U.S. President Donald Trump made a fresh claim. Over the weekend he claimed that the Biden administration has allocated $18 million in funding to India to help with its election. This was his fifth public statement in a week on the issue. Watch in for more details!

Trump says '$18 million for India', days after he said $21 million

In third year of war, Ukraine is cornered and betrayed by its principal backer US. Donald Trump has trashed the policy of supporting Ukraine and is instead pushing for a deal. Ukraine has been sidelined from negotiations to finalise the deal that will end the war. For that, Trump is pressuring Ukraine to give up land, natural resources, and security guarantees. Watch to know more!

Russia Ukraine War: Zelensky Hails ‘Three Years Of Resistance’ On War Anniversary

President Donald Trump praised his rapid policy changes, applauding Elon Musk and his DOGE team for cutting federal agencies. Watch in for more details!

US: Donald Trump celebrates 1st month in office amid sweeping policy changes

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is "not ready" to sign a deal that would give the United States preferential access to his country's rare earth minerals, a Ukrainian source told news agency.

US and Russian officials to meet again: Moscow

Recent talks between Russian president Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump has sparked speculation about a potential shift in global alliances. The development comes at a time when China has been a crucial economic partner for Russia since western sanctions were imposed following the Ukraine invasion. Now, with the possibility of improved US-Russia relations, China may face uncertainties in its strategic calculus.

'Anything But China' Policy Gaining Traction?

Elon Musk has issued a stern warning to US government employees, giving them just two days to justify their jobs or face termination. This comes after Donald Trump urged Musk to be "more aggressive" in cutting federal workforce bloat. As job cuts escalate, will the government respond?

Elon Musk gives US govt staff ultimatum: Justify jobs or lose them

US President Donald Trump has appeared to soften his plan to take control of war-torn Gaza and relocate its more than two million residents to nearby countries, saying he was only recommending the idea.

US president Trump softens stance on Gaza takeover plan

President Donald Trump’s claim that the US provided $21 million in aid for India’s elections has been debunked. Reports confirm the funds were actually allocated to Bangladesh, not India. This revelation sparks fresh debate over foreign aid and misinformation.

Trump’s $21 million India aid claim proven false: Reports

Ukraine's President Zelensky refuses to sign a critical deal with the US, citing concerns over security guarantees. Reports suggest Washington is pushing for a $500 billion extraction deal, while Trump demands Ukraine return money. Meanwhile, tensions rise over Starlink access, and UK PM Starmer urges Trump to stand by Ukraine. Putin-Trump talks may also be in the works.

Ukraine rejects US deal as Trump pushes tougher demands

Was recommending idea: Trump on Gaza plan

Reports confirm USAID funds went to Bangladesh, not India

US President Donald Trump has removed the iconic Resolute Desk from the Oval Office and replaced it with the C&amp;O desk, previously used by George HW Bush. Trump stated that the Resolute Desk, which has been used by almost every US president since 1880, is undergoing a light refurbishment. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-the-puck-trudeau-in-an-apparent-dig-at-trump-celebrates-canadas-3-2-win-over-us-says-you-cant-take-our-country-8747866">What the 'puck'? Trudeau, in an apparent dig at Trump, celebrates Canada's 3-2 win over US, says 'You can&rsquo;t take our country'</a>
<h2>Trump&rsquo;s explanation for the change</h2>
Trump shared on Truth Social that presidents can choose from seven desks, and he selected the C&amp;O Desk as a temporary replacement. The C&amp;O Desk, originally built for Chesapeake and Ohio Railway executives, was donated to the White House in 1987. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/i-was-deserving-angela-bassett-on-her-viral-face-reaction-when-she-lost-oscar-to-jamie-lee-curtis-8747052">'I was deserving!' Angela Bassett on her viral face reaction when she lost Oscar to Jamie Lee Curtis</a>
<h2>Elon Musk&rsquo;s son and the viral incident</h2>
The decision to remove the desk came days after Elon Musk visited the Oval Office with his 4-year-old son, X &AElig; A-12. During a live Q&amp;A session, the child was seen picking his nose and rubbing the desk, an incident that quickly went viral. Trump, known for his germophobia, did not directly cite this as the reason for the desk&rsquo;s removal but emphasised the need for refurbishment. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-murdered-10-month-old-kfir-and-4-year-old-ariel-bibas-with-bare-hands-alleges-israel-family-says-yet-to-receive-official-info-8747053">Hamas murdered young hostages? Israel claims 'terrorists' killed 10-month-old Kfir and 4-year-old Ariel Bibas with 'bare hands'</a>
<h2>Significance of the resolute desk&nbsp;</h2>
The Resolute Desk was crafted from the British exploration ship HMS Resolute and gifted to the US by Queen Victoria in 1880. It has been a symbol of the presidency and a practical workspace for leaders, including John F. Kennedy, Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden.
Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-about-us-trumps-third-attack-on-21-mn-usaid-8746942"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-about-us-trumps-third-attack-on-21-mn-usaid-8746942">'$21 mn going to my friend PM Modi for voter turnout&rsquo; Trump&rsquo;s third swipe on USAID</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World| Trump shared on Truth Social that presidents can choose from seven desks, and he selected the C&O Desk as a temporary replacement. The C&O Desk, originally built for Chesapeake and Ohio Railway executives, was donated to the White House in 1987.

US President Donald Trump has removed the iconic Resolute Desk from the Oval Office and replaced it with the C&O desk, previously used by George HW Bush. Trump stated that the Resolute Desk, which has been used by almost every US president since 1880, is undergoing a light refurbishment. Also read | What the 'puck'? Trudeau, in an apparent dig at Trump, celebrates Canada's 3-2 win over US, says 'You can’t take our country' Trump’s explanation for the change Trump shared on Truth Social that presidents can choose from seven desks, and he selected the C&O Desk as a temporary replacement. The C&O Desk, originally built for Chesapeake and Ohio Railway executives, was donated to the White House in 1987. Also read | 'I was deserving!' Angela Bassett on her viral face reaction when she lost Oscar to Jamie Lee Curtis Elon Musk’s son and the viral incident The decision to remove the desk came days after Elon Musk visited the Oval Office with his 4-year-old son, X Æ A-12. During a live Q&A session, the child was seen picking his nose and rubbing the desk, an incident that quickly went viral. Trump, known for his germophobia, did not directly cite this as the reason for the desk’s removal but emphasised the need for refurbishment. Also read | Hamas murdered young hostages? Israel claims 'terrorists' killed 10-month-old Kfir and 4-year-old Ariel Bibas with 'bare hands' Significance of the resolute desk The Resolute Desk was crafted from the British exploration ship HMS Resolute and gifted to the US by Queen Victoria in 1880. It has been a symbol of the presidency and a practical workspace for leaders, including John F. Kennedy, Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden. Also read | '$21 mn going to my friend PM Modi for voter turnout’ Trump’s third swipe on USAID (With inputs from agencies)

Trump temporarily removes Resolute Desk from Oval Office,  after Musk's son seen picking his nose

One month into his presidency, Donald Trump has made swift and controversial moves, capturing attention both domestically and internationally. Watch in for more details!

One month of Trump 2.0: A lowdown of Trump's big moves so far

Donald Trump upends US foreign policy to turn against Ukraine, Taiwan is eyeing the row carefully. Trump’s phone call with Putin is causing a stir in Taiwan, island holds its breath amid China threat. As chaos unfolds Trump’s messaging about support for Taipei has been mixed. Watch in for more details!

Trump upends US foreign policy, turns against Ukraine; move causes stir in Taiwan

The US is undergoing a change as thousands of federal workers are fired, potentially affecting hundreds of thousands. At the center of this so-called cleanup is an effort aimed at saving trillions of American taxpayer dollars, with Elon Musk playing a significant role. Democrats are now launching a probe into Musk’s role in the White House. Our next story takes a look at one month of Musk Mania, as some like to call it.

The world’s richest person is tearing down Washington’s centuries-old institutions, with the chainsaw-wielding billionaire acting as Trump’s right hand. America’s government faces its most radical transformation yet. Watch in for more details!

Elon Musk's month as Trump’s closest ally – a deep dive

trump

Trump, News on Trump, stories on Trump, articles on Trump, Trump stories at Wion, Trump news, Trump latest news