Abdelrahman
As Ukraine approaches the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his willingness to resign if it would lead to peace or NATO membership—though this idea is met with resistance from the U.S. and several NATO allies. Zelenskyy emphasized his desire for strong, amicable ties with the United States, referring to it as a “strategic partner,” while brushing off criticism from Donald Trump, who labeled him a “dictator” for not holding elections during wartime.
Additionally, Zelenskyy made it clear that he would not agree to a proposed $500 billion minerals deal with the U.S., arguing that the amount exceeds the actual military support provided by the U.S., which totals around $100 billion. “I refuse to commit to an agreement that future generations of Ukrainians will be burdened with,” he stated.
Here’s a recap of events from Sunday:
Zelenskyy Willing to ‘Step Down for Peace’ While Rejecting U.S. Minerals Demand
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has firmly declined the U.S.’s pressure to sign a $500 billion minerals agreement, expressing his hope for Donald Trump to support Ukraine during negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict.
Addressing a press conference in Kyiv ahead of Monday’s anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Zelenskyy stated that he did not recognize the sum being sought by the White House as “compensation” for prior military aid.
Trump Accused of ‘Surrendering’ to Russia Over Ukraine Conflict by Prominent Democrat
A senior Democratic lawmaker accused Donald Trump of capitulating to Russian interests on Sunday, coinciding with remarks from Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff advocating for talks between the U.S. and Russia as a way to end ongoing violence.
Bomb Threat at Anti-Trump Conference Targets Officer Involved with Ex-Proud Boys Leader
Attendees of a center-right political conference in Washington, D.C., had to evacuate after a bomb threat was allegedly emailed by someone claiming to be Enrique Tarrio, the former leader of the Proud Boys. Tarrio, who was previously convicted but later pardoned for his role in the January 6 insurrection, has denied any involvement.
FBI Director Kash Patel Urges Staff to Dismiss Elon Musk’s Achievement Request
Kash Patel, the newly appointed FBI director, advised his employees to ignore an email from the Trump administration instructing them to highlight their accomplishments from the past week, as Elon Musk continues efforts to reduce the federal government’s size.
Trump Administration Moves to Eliminate 2,000 USAID Positions
The Trump administration announced that it would place most USAID personnel worldwide on paid administrative leave while cutting approximately 2,000 positions in the U.S., as reported in an internal notice sent to agency staff.
Trump Suspends Medical Research Funding, Potentially Breaking a Judge’s Order
The Trump administration has halted a significant step in the NIH’s medical research funding process, likely violating a federal judge’s temporary restraining order concerning funding freezes.
Momentum Grows Among Trump Opponents as Concerns Emerge
Progressive activists and concerned citizens took the opportunity during the first week-long recess of the new Trump administration to pressure Republican lawmakers to resist the president’s agenda amid fears of unlawful overreach.
At various congressional offices, Tesla dealerships, and town halls across states like Georgia, Wisconsin, and Oregon, voters voiced their worries over proposed Medicaid cuts and the Trump administration’s potential dismantling of essential federal agencies.
Elon Musk’s Status as a MAGA Icon Solidified at CPAC
During CPAC, Elon Musk received a chainsaw from Argentina’s president, reflecting his newfound status among conservative activists. Wearing a MAGA cap, he enthusiastically engaged with the audience, who expressed their admiration for him.
Can Keir Starmer Convince Trump Not to Yield to Putin?
As Keir Starmer prepares for his critical meeting with Donald Trump at the White House, he is urged by advisers to clearly convey his main arguments while maintaining a concise approach. Flattery is recommended, but it should remain subtle to avoid being overbearing.
Former Panama Envoy Compares Trump to Mobster Tony Soprano
The former U.S. ambassador to Panama has sharply criticized Donald Trump’s Latin America policy, likening his behavior to that of the infamous mob boss Tony Soprano.
Highlights of Today’s Events
- Trump announced on social media Sunday that Dan Bongino, a well-known conservative talk show host, will serve as deputy director of the FBI, joining Kash Patel, recently appointed as the FBI director.
- Zelenskyy confirmed that a contentious proposal by the Trump administration to claim $500 billion in profits from Ukraine’s rare earth minerals has been withdrawn from negotiations.
- Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin dismissed notions that Trump could find a way to run for a third unconstitutional presidential term, asserting he would not approve without a constitutional amendment to facilitate it.
- New York Governor Kathy Hochul conveyed to Trump that congestion pricing tolls in New York City are both necessary and effective, predicting that any dispute would ultimately be settled in court.
- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated readiness to resume hostilities against Hamas after the militant group accused Israel of violating a Gaza truce, while Trump’s envoy aims to secure an extension of the current ceasefire.
