Author: Grace Johnson

Zelensky Chooses a Careful ToneUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky avoids criticising the US draft peace plan, even though it mirrors many Russian demands. The White House rejects claims that Ukraine was left out of the process. Zelensky says in his nightly address that Ukraine needs peace and will act with calm, disciplined diplomacy. He stresses that Ukraine remains ready for honest and efficient talks. Kyiv Worries About Deep ConcessionsOfficials in Kyiv fear proposals that include giving up the entire Donbas region. The draft also demands a smaller Ukrainian army and bans any foreign troops in the country. Ukraine has rejected these…

Trump signs law pushing rapid release of files Donald Trump announces he has signed a law that forces the Justice Department to release all government records tied to Jeffrey Epstein. The law sets a 30-day deadline, though officials may withhold parts that risk active investigations or violate personal privacy. With Trump’s backing, the bill clears both chambers with overwhelming support. Trump shifts his stance after pressure from survivors and members of his own party. He had previously dismissed the effort as a partisan distraction before reversing course. He now argues the files may reveal information about Democratic figures and stresses…

Judge Dismisses Antitrust AllegationsA US district judge in Washington ruled that Meta did not break antitrust laws when it bought Instagram and WhatsApp more than ten years ago. The decision represents a setback for the Federal Trade Commission, which sued Meta in 2020 and claimed the company secured dominance by absorbing rivals. Judge James Boasberg wrote that the agency failed to prove its case and said Meta does not hold a monopoly in the social-media market. Meta praised the ruling and said it faces strong competition. Top Meta Leaders Defend Company StrategyIn April, Judge Boasberg led a long bench trial…

Pichai says no firm will escape the impactSundar Pichai says every company will feel the shock if the AI boom collapses. He told a major British news outlet that the surge in AI investment marks an “extraordinary moment” but also shows “irrationality”. He pointed to rising concern in Silicon Valley as valuations jump and firms pour money into fast-growing AI ventures. Pichai said his company can handle a downturn but still faces risk. “I think no company is going to be immune, including us,” he said. Exclusive insights from Google’s California basePichai discussed energy demand, slowing climate goals, UK expansion,…

Laurie Breslin has been appointed as the new leader of the Manatee County School District. Her selection marks a significant step in providing continuity and strong leadership for students, staff, and the wider community. Breslin brings extensive experience in education and administration. Stakeholders expect her to maintain the district’s progress while introducing initiatives to support student achievement and staff development. Her leadership style emphasizes collaboration, transparency, and community engagement. She plans to work closely with teachers, parents, and local organizations to ensure the district meets both academic and social needs. Manatee County schools have faced challenges in recent years, including…

Trump Executes a Sudden ReversalDonald Trump now calls on House Republicans to support the release of the Epstein files. He writes on Truth Social that his party has “nothing to hide.” His reversal comes as many Republicans prepare to vote with Democrats. The House plans a vote this week on a bill that forces the Justice Department to publish the documents. Supporters expect a majority in the House, but the Senate outcome remains unclear. Trump must approve the release if both chambers pass the measure. Momentum Builds Across Both PartiesDemocrats and several Republicans support the legislation. Co-sponsor Thomas Massie says…

Growing Pressure Over Rising Costs President Donald Trump rolls back tariffs on many food imports. He signs an order that lifts duties on items like coffee, bananas and beef. The move follows rising pressure as grocery prices climb. Trump previously downplayed cost-of-living worries, but recent Republican losses shift his focus. The White House list includes avocados, tomatoes, coconuts and mangoes. Officials say US producers cannot supply these goods in enough quantity. Trump Defends His Tariff Course Trump insists his tariffs never pushed consumer prices higher. He calls affordability concerns a political ploy by Democrats. He argues the levies help reduce…

Judge Ends Lengthy Legal FightA bankruptcy judge approved a $7.4bn settlement on Friday that compels Purdue Pharma and its billionaire owners to pay for their role in the US opioid crisis. The ruling closes a long legal struggle to hold the makers of OxyContin and the Sackler family accountable and releases long-delayed funds for people battling addiction. Purdue filed for bankruptcy in 2019 after thousands of lawsuits accused the company of driving the nationwide opioid epidemic. Settlement Grows Beyond Earlier OfferThe new agreement increases the payout by more than $1bn compared with a previous deal rejected by the Supreme Court…

Major Apology IssuedThe national broadcaster apologises to US President Donald Trump for an edited Panorama segment that merged parts of his 6 January 2021 speech. Editors say the cut falsely suggested Trump directly urged violent action. The organisation withdraws the 2024 programme from circulation. Trump’s legal team threatens a $1bn lawsuit and demands a retraction, an apology, and compensation. The scandal triggers the resignations of Director General Tim Davie and News Chief Deborah Turness on Sunday. The broadcaster asks the White House for comment. Another Edited Clip RevealedThe apology follows hours after the Daily Telegraph uncovers a second altered clip…

President Donald Trump has signed a short-term spending bill that reopens the federal government after the longest shutdown in US history. He approved the measure just hours after the House of Representatives passed it by 222 votes to 209 on Wednesday night. Two days earlier, the Senate narrowly approved the same package. In the Oval Office, Trump said the government would “resume normal operations” after “people were hurt so badly” during the 43-day shutdown. Since October, many government services had been suspended. Around 1.4 million federal workers were either unpaid or on forced leave. Food aid programs stalled, and nationwide…