QtrendsThe US Senate passed a $70 billion ICE funding bill in a major win for President Trump. Ukraine's President Zelensky called for direct peace talks with Putin in an open letter. The EU is exploring new mechanisms to reduce trade dependency on China, while EU-China talks are underway in Paris. Israel struck southern Lebanon as Hezbollah rejected a US-brokered ceasefire deal. Growing opposition emerged against a Trump family-linked resort project in Albania.
The US Senate passed a massive $70 billion immigration enforcement bill after an all-night session, marking a significant legislative victory for President Trump. The bill dramatically increases funding for ICE operations and immigration enforcement. Attempts by Democrats to limit Trump's settlement fund were unsuccessful. The bill now moves to the House for further consideration.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky published an open letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, directly calling for face-to-face negotiations to end the war. The Kremlin confirmed Putin is aware of the letter but has not yet responded. Zelensky's letter urges Putin to 'stop your war' and engage in direct dialogue. The move signals a potential diplomatic shift in the ongoing conflict.
The EU's trade chief stated that the bloc needs a 'dedicated instrument' to unwind economic dependencies on China. EU and Chinese officials are set for talks in Paris this week amid growing trade war fears. Meanwhile, Chinese state media suggested that Sino-US cooperation could benefit from expanded scope. The developments highlight increasing tensions in global trade relations.
Israel launched strikes on southern Lebanon after issuing evacuation warnings to several villages, despite a US-brokered ceasefire agreement with Lebanon. Hezbollah rejected the ceasefire deal, complicating efforts to de-escalate the conflict. The strikes mark a significant escalation in cross-border hostilities between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group.
Growing opposition has emerged in Albania against a planned luxury resort linked to the Trump family, with protesters taking to the streets. The proposed development, associated with Jared Kushner, has sparked debate over foreign investment and local interests. Albanian media and international outlets have covered the growing public discontent over the project.