Published Time: 08-10-2025, 16:00 (U.S. Eastern Time)

U.S. President Donald Trump has nominated Tammy Bruce, a former Fox News contributor and current State Department spokeswoman, to serve as the United States’ deputy representative to the United Nations. The announcement, made on Trump’s social media platform Truth Social, highlights Bruce’s work at the State Department since Trump began his second term in January.

Tammy Bruce’s Background and Nomination Details

Tammy Bruce has been a prominent conservative voice for over two decades, initially gaining recognition as a Fox News contributor. She is also a bestselling author, known for books such as Fear Itself: Exposing the Left’s Mind-Killing Agenda, which critiques liberal policies and ideologies.

Since joining the U.S. State Department earlier this year, Bruce has served as the department’s spokeswoman, a role in which she has defended several of the administration’s controversial foreign policy decisions. These include the enforcement of stricter immigration policies and the deployment of private military contractors for humanitarian efforts, such as aid distribution in Gaza.

In his Truth Social post on Saturday, President Trump praised Bruce’s performance, calling her a “Great Patriot” and predicting she will represent the United States “brilliantly” at the United Nations. However, her nomination still requires confirmation by the U.S. Senate before she can officially assume the role.

The Role of the Deputy U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations

The deputy representative to the UN plays a crucial role in advancing U.S. interests in the international body. This position involves working closely with the U.S. ambassador to the UN to shape diplomatic strategies, engage with global partners, and address critical issues such as security, human rights, and international law.

Currently, the acting U.S. ambassador to the UN is Dorothy Shea, a career diplomat who has held the deputy ambassador role throughout 2024. Trump’s nominee for the ambassador position, Mike Waltz, is also awaiting Senate confirmation, highlighting the ongoing transitions within the U.S. diplomatic team at the UN.

Implications and Reactions

Tammy Bruce’s nomination reflects the Trump administration’s continued preference for appointing politically aligned figures with media backgrounds to prominent diplomatic positions. Her history as a conservative commentator and outspoken critic of liberal policies signals a clear ideological direction for U.S. representation at the UN under Trump’s second term.

While some conservatives have welcomed the nomination as a reinforcement of U.S. interests on the global stage, critics argue that diplomatic roles should prioritize seasoned career diplomats with extensive international experience. The Senate confirmation process will likely bring these debates to the forefront as lawmakers evaluate Bruce’s qualifications and suitability for the deputy ambassador role.

Looking Ahead

As the Senate prepares to consider Tammy Bruce’s nomination, attention will also focus on the confirmation of Mike Waltz as the primary U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Together, their appointments will shape the United States’ diplomatic posture amid ongoing international challenges, including tensions with Russia and China, global security issues, and multilateral negotiations on climate change and human rights.

Source BBC – Trump nominates ex-Fox News host Tammy Bruce as deputy UN ambassador

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Published Time: 08-10-2025, 15:30 (U.S. Eastern Time)

A rapidly evolving diplomatic effort took center stage this weekend after U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin next Friday in Alaska. The announcement triggered urgent consultations among European allies who emphasized that Ukraine must be an active participant in any negotiations regarding its future and that peace talks must follow a ceasefire.

Diplomatic Tensions and the Uncertain Summit Details

The proposed Alaska summit between Trump and Putin has been organized on short notice, and many details remain unsettled, including the exact location. While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was not officially named as a participant, White House officials have not ruled out his involvement in some capacity, possibly in meetings following the Trump-Putin bilateral talks, according to sources familiar with the discussions.

A White House official told CNN that President Trump remains “open to a trilateral summit with both leaders” but is currently planning a bilateral meeting “as requested by President Putin.”

European Leaders Push for Ukraine’s Inclusion and a Ceasefire

Amid the flurry of diplomatic activity, European officials convened a meeting on Saturday in the English countryside hosted by U.S. Vice President JD Vance. Leaders from France, Germany, Italy, Poland, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and Finland underscored their support for diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine, while also laying out strict conditions for any negotiations.

Their joint statement reaffirmed that:

• Ukraine must be directly involved in all peace talks.
• Negotiations should take place only after a ceasefire or reduction in hostilities.
• Territorial concessions must be reciprocal; if Ukraine cedes land, Russia must return occupied territories.
• International borders must not be altered by force.
• Robust security guarantees for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity are essential.

“These principles,” the statement read, “reflect our commitment to a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, and we reject proposals that undermine Ukraine’s right to choose its own destiny.”

Conflicting Peace Proposals and Rising Concerns

According to European officials, Russian President Putin’s proposal, as relayed during a recent meeting with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, involves significant territorial concessions by Ukraine, particularly relinquishing control over the eastern Donbas region, which Russia partially occupies. However, the status of other contested regions like Kherson and Zaporizhzhia remains unclear.

While Trump suggested the potential for “some swapping of territories” during Friday’s announcement, the specifics of any deal remain vague, raising concerns among European allies about Ukraine’s future territorial integrity and the scope of U.S. security commitments.

Progress and Uncertainties Ahead of the Alaska Summit

In the meeting hosted by Vice President Vance, officials discussed these issues with European and Ukrainian representatives, including virtual participation from Steve Witkoff. While U.S. officials described the discussions as making “significant progress,” it remains uncertain whether European leaders or Zelensky fully endorse the path ahead.

Addressing the meeting’s outcomes, President Zelensky expressed cautious optimism, stating, “Our arguments are being heard. The dangers are being taken into account.”

The Road Forward

The White House and European leaders now face the delicate task of aligning their diplomatic approaches before the Friday summit. The critical challenges include ensuring Ukraine’s meaningful involvement, securing a ceasefire, and clarifying the terms of any territorial and security agreements.

As the situation develops, global attention remains focused on Alaska, where the fate of ongoing hostilities and peace prospects in Ukraine may hinge on high-stakes talks between the United States and Russia.

Source: CNN – White House hasn’t ruled out Zelensky being in Alaska during Trump-Putin meeting on Friday

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Published: August 9, 2025 – 15:00 (U.S. Eastern Time)

Deal includes creation of new “Trump Route” to reopen key transit links and boost regional cooperation

Washington, D.C. – In a landmark moment for the South Caucasus, the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan shook hands at the White House on Friday before signing a U.S.-brokered peace agreement aimed at ending decades of conflict over the Nagorno-Karabakh region.

U.S. President Donald Trump stood between Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan as they extended their hands across the table. The symbolic gesture marked a breakthrough after nearly 35 years of tension, war, and failed negotiations.

A Landmark Agreement After Decades of Conflict

The agreement, signed in the presence of U.S. officials, will reopen key transportation routes between Armenia and Azerbaijan while strengthening American influence in a region where Russia’s role has diminished.

One of the central elements of the deal is the creation of a major transit corridor named the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity, connecting Azerbaijan to its autonomous Nakhchivan exclave through Armenian territory. The corridor will also provide a more direct link from Azerbaijan to Turkey and, by extension, to Europe.

President Trump called the naming of the route “a great honor,” noting that it was suggested by Armenian representatives. “Thirty-five years they fought, and now they’re going to be friends for a long time,” Trump said.

Leaders Praise U.S. Mediation

Both Aliyev and Pashinyan credited the U.S. administration for making the deal possible.

“We are laying a foundation to write a better story than the one we had in the past,” said Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan, calling the agreement a “significant milestone.”

Azerbaijani President Aliyev described the outcome as “a miracle” achieved in six months of diplomacy, praising Trump’s personal role in the negotiations.

Trump has previously expressed his desire to be remembered as a peacemaker and has been mentioned by foreign leaders as a potential Nobel Peace Prize nominee for his role in mediating international disputes.

Strategic and Economic Implications

For Azerbaijan, the Trump Route represents both economic opportunity and strategic connectivity, allowing faster and more efficient trade routes to Turkey and European markets. The corridor is also expected to carry rail lines, oil and gas pipelines, and fiber-optic infrastructure.

According to senior U.S. administration officials, at least nine international developers have already expressed interest in the project, with negotiations set to begin next week.

In addition to the joint Armenia-Azerbaijan deal, both countries signed separate agreements with the United States to expand cooperation in energy, technology, and economic development.

U.S. Influence Rises as Russia’s Role Declines

The deal comes at a time of shifting geopolitical dynamics in the South Caucasus. Russia, historically the primary mediator in the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict, has seen its influence wane since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

U.S. officials see the agreement as a strategic opportunity to deepen ties in a region long dominated by Moscow. The peace initiative began earlier this year when Trump’s diplomatic envoy, Steve Witkoff, met with President Aliyev in Baku to discuss what officials described as a “regional reset.”

Decades of Tensions Over Nagorno-Karabakh

The Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict has its roots in the late Soviet period, when both nations fought over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Populated mainly by ethnic Armenians but internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan, the area has been a flashpoint for repeated wars and skirmishes.

After years of stalled peace talks, Azerbaijan regained full control of Karabakh in 2023. A major obstacle to further normalization had been Azerbaijan’s demand for a land bridge to Nakhchivan, known as the Zangezur corridor. Armenia resisted this proposal, citing sovereignty concerns.

However, U.S. mediation, combined with the prospect of improved trade access and closer ties with Washington, helped bridge the gap between the two sides.

A Turning Point for the Region

The agreement is seen by analysts as a significant step toward long-term stability in the South Caucasus. For Armenia, it offers an opportunity to diversify foreign relations and reduce reliance on Russia. For Azerbaijan, it strengthens its position as a regional energy hub.

Trump expressed confidence that the peace will hold, telling reporters, “I’m very confident this will last, and I look forward to visiting the Trump Route in the future.”

While the deal is a major diplomatic success, experts caution that implementing its provisions will require continued cooperation, trust-building, and international oversight.

Source: AP News – Leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan shake hands and sign deal at White House peace summit

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Relations between Russia and Azerbaijan, once marked by close economic and cultural ties, have taken a dramatic turn in recent months. A series of deadly incidents, high-profile arrests, and shifting regional alliances have brought tensions between the two countries to a boiling point.

From a passenger jet crash that Baku blames on Moscow to police raids resulting in the deaths of ethnic Azerbaijanis in Russia, the developments mark a serious rupture in a previously stable relationship. Here’s what’s driving the current crisis—and why it’s happening now.

Decades of Cooperation Under Strain

The close ties between Russia and Azerbaijan date back to the post-Soviet era, particularly after Heydar Aliyev—father of current Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev—took office in 1993. Under both Putin and Aliyev, the two countries developed deep economic and diplomatic relationships.

Azerbaijan has relied on Russia for oil and natural gas imports to meet domestic demand, while exporting its own energy to the West. Russia is also a major market for Azerbaijani agricultural goods and serves as a critical transport hub for trade between Azerbaijan, Iran, and the Middle East.

The Azerbaijani diaspora in Russia is sizable—officially listed at around 500,000, but unofficial estimates put the number closer to 2 million. Azerbaijani businesses also hold significant investments across Russia’s real estate, construction, and retail sectors.

But that foundation is cracking.

The Karabakh Conflict and Shifting Power

The roots of tension go deeper than economics. The long-standing conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh—an ethnically Armenian region within Azerbaijan—has been a central issue in regional politics.

After years of war and a 2020 military resurgence by Azerbaijan backed by Turkish support, Baku reclaimed most of the disputed territory. Russia brokered a ceasefire and deployed peacekeepers, but the balance of power shifted.

In September 2023, Azerbaijan completed its military campaign, regaining full control of Karabakh. Russia, preoccupied with the war in Ukraine, did not intervene. Armenia responded by cooling its ties with Moscow and seeking closer relations with the West.

Azerbaijan, emboldened by its victory, began asserting itself more aggressively—politically and diplomatically.

Plane Crash Sparks Diplomatic Fallout

Tensions spiked again on December 25, 2024, when an Azerbaijan Airlines passenger plane crashed en route from Baku to Grozny, Chechnya. Azerbaijani officials claimed the jet was accidentally struck by Russian air defenses. It attempted an emergency landing in western Kazakhstan but crashed, killing 38 of the 67 people on board.

Putin expressed regret over the “tragic incident” but stopped short of admitting fault. President Aliyev accused Moscow of trying to suppress details about the crash.

In a symbolic snub, Aliyev skipped Russia’s Victory Day parade in May. Later that month, Azerbaijan hosted Ukraine’s foreign minister—an unmistakable signal of closer ties with Kyiv.

Deadly Police Raids and Retaliation

The situation deteriorated further on June 27 when Russian police raided the homes of ethnic Azerbaijanis in Yekaterinburg, citing investigations into decades-old murders. During the raid, brothers Huseyn and Ziyaddin Safarov died, and others were seriously injured.

Azerbaijan’s authorities said the deaths were caused by “post-traumatic shock due to multiple injuries.” Baku condemned what it called “extrajudicial killings,” and cancelled several planned Russian diplomatic and cultural visits.

Days later, Azerbaijan escalated its response. On July 1, masked police stormed the Baku offices of Sputnik Azerbaijan, a Russian state-funded media outlet, arresting seven employees. They also detained eight Russian IT professionals on charges of drug trafficking and cybercrime. Images of the bruised detainees sparked outrage in Russian media.

Russia retaliated by detaining Azerbaijani community leaders in Yekaterinburg and Voronezh. A widely circulated video showed Russian special forces violently arresting one community leader and his son, fueling anger in Baku.

Diplomatic War of Words

Both governments have exchanged sharp diplomatic rebukes.

Azerbaijan denounced the Russian police actions as “deliberate and demonstrative violence.” Meanwhile, Russia’s Foreign Ministry summoned Azerbaijan’s ambassador to protest what it described as Baku’s “intentional steps to dismantle bilateral relations.”

Azerbaijan responded in kind, demanding a full investigation into the deaths, punishment for those responsible, and compensation. It dismissed Russia’s complaints over the arrests in Baku.

Adding fuel to the fire, President Aliyev discussed the situation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The Ukrainian leader publicly backed Azerbaijan, saying Russia was “bullying Azerbaijani citizens.” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov accused Ukraine of trying to provoke further instability.

What’s Next?

Despite backchannel communications between prosecutors on both sides, there’s been no public sign of de-escalation. Whether Presidents Putin and Aliyev will speak directly remains uncertain.

What is clear is that the Russia-Azerbaijan relationship—once rooted in post-Soviet cooperation and shared interests—is under its greatest strain in decades. With broader geopolitical shifts and deepening alliances elsewhere, the fallout could reshape the power dynamics of the South Caucasus for years to come.

Source: AP News – Tensions are rising between Russia and Azerbaijan. Why is this happening now?

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A leaked phone call between Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodia’s former leader Hun Sen has triggered a political earthquake in Bangkok — one that could topple the government, fracture coalition support, and deepen an already-tense border dispute.

A Scandal with Serious Fallout

The 17-minute recording, made public by Hun Sen himself, features 38-year-old Paetongtarn criticizing her own military over last month’s deadly border clash that left a Cambodian soldier dead. Calling Hun Sen “uncle,” she urged him not to listen to opposing Thai military voices and hinted at internal discord within her administration.

“Right now, that side wants to look cool, they will say things that are not beneficial to the nation,” she said in the call, referring to a Thai army commander. “If you want anything, just tell me, and I will take care of it.”

Those comments struck a nerve. Critics accused her of undermining Thailand’s national interests and bending to the will of a foreign leader. On Wednesday, the Bhumjaithai party — a key coalition partner — quit the government, throwing Paetongtarn’s Pheu Thai party into crisis just ten months into her tenure.

“Her exit is a matter of time,” warned Thitinan Pongsudhirak, a political science professor at Chulalongkorn University. “She could be liable for further charges.”

Diplomatic Fallout

The leak infuriated Thai officials. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs called it “a breach of diplomatic etiquette” and summoned Cambodia’s ambassador to deliver a formal protest. In a public statement, the ministry said the leak undermined “trust and respect between the two leaders and countries.”

Hun Sen, 72, who ruled Cambodia for nearly four decades before handing power to his son Hun Manet in 2023, claimed he had shared the recording with around 80 Cambodian officials — one of whom may have leaked it. Later, he posted the full audio himself on social media.

PM Paetongtarn Tries to Contain the Damage

Paetongtarn has since apologized and tried to explain her comments as a “negotiation tactic,” claiming the call was meant to de-escalate tensions and “shouldn’t have been made public.”

“I understand now — this was never about real negotiation. It was political theater,” she said during a press conference. “Releasing this call… it’s just not the way diplomacy should be done.”

But for many in Thailand, the damage was already done. Conservative and nationalist voices are calling for her resignation and legal action. Meanwhile, online outrage and political protests are gaining momentum.

A Fragile Border, an Escalating Dispute

The phone call is just the latest twist in a dangerous standoff between Thailand and Cambodia along their disputed northern border — particularly the Emerald Triangle, where Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos converge.

Tensions flared last month when troops from both countries exchanged fire, resulting in the death of a Cambodian soldier. Each side blamed the other, and what began as a local incident has since ballooned into a wider geopolitical standoff.

Thailand responded with military reinforcements, tighter border control, and threats to cut off electricity and internet to Cambodian towns. Cambodia retaliated by halting Thai imports, banning Thai media, and filing a petition with the UN’s International Court of Justice (ICJ) — though Thailand does not recognize the ICJ’s jurisdiction over the disputed areas.

This isn’t the first time the border has been a flashpoint. In 2011, the two countries fought a deadly skirmish over territory near the Preah Vihear temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, killing at least 20 people and displacing thousands.

The Political Stakes

For Paetongtarn, the stakes could not be higher. She’s Thailand’s youngest-ever prime minister and the daughter of former PM Thaksin Shinawatra — a divisive figure who remains influential behind the scenes. Critics accuse her of being out of her depth; supporters say she’s a fresh face attempting to bridge a deeply divided political landscape.

But with coalition support collapsing, public sentiment turning, and her handling of both the border crisis and foreign relations under fire, her future as leader looks increasingly uncertain.

As one analyst put it: “Thailand was already walking a tightrope. This scandal just cut the rope.”

Source: CNN – How a leaked phone call between a former strongman and a young leader could topple a government

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Kananaskis, Alberta — The Group of Seven summit wrapped up with more questions than answers as six world leaders struggled to find common ground on key global crises—Russia’s war in Ukraine, the escalating Israel-Iran conflict, and global trade tensions—after U.S. President Donald Trump made an early exit.

While Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and leaders from the U.K., France, Germany, Italy, and Japan continued discussions through the summit’s final day, the absence of Trump loomed large. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte joined the talks on Tuesday, hoping for clear commitments—particularly on Ukraine—but major agreements never materialized.

No Unified Stance on Ukraine

One of the summit’s most pressing challenges—Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine—ended without a joint statement. Zelenskyy, who had been scheduled to meet with Trump (a meeting later scrapped), called for more support and said Ukraine was ready for peace talks and a ceasefire, but needed stronger pressure on Russia.

Behind the scenes, a senior Canadian official said the U.S. had resisted any joint declaration on Ukraine, reportedly to avoid undermining its diplomatic push for negotiations with Moscow. Although Canada later walked back that claim, the lack of a unified front was clear. Carney instead issued Canada’s own statement reaffirming support for a “secure and sovereign Ukraine” and announcing new economic sanctions on Russia.

Meanwhile, Trump defended his reluctance to join new sanctions, arguing that punishing Russia comes with “tremendous” costs to the U.S. He also blamed the Ukraine war on the 2014 G7 decision to expel Vladimir Putin over Crimea’s annexation—a stance at odds with his G7 peers.

Tensions in the Middle East Dominate the Agenda

The summit was also overshadowed by growing fears of a regional war in the Middle East. As Israeli airstrikes pounded Iran and Tehran fired back with missiles and drones, leaders scrambled to address the crisis.

Trump, before leaving, briefly joined the others in releasing a carefully worded joint statement calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and stressing that Iran “can never have a nuclear weapon.” French President Emmanuel Macron warned against any push for regime change in Iran, saying military action would only lead to more instability.

“I believe the greatest mistake today would be to pursue regime change in Iran through military means,” Macron said. “That would lead to chaos.”

Trade Frictions and Awkward Moments

Trade tensions also resurfaced, with Trump’s steep tariffs dominating side conversations. His trade team stayed behind in Canada to continue talks as he flew back to Washington. Trump has slapped 50% tariffs on steel and aluminum, a 25% tax on cars, and a 10% tariff on most imports—measures that have strained relationships with key allies. More hikes may be on the way after his self-imposed 90-day deadline for trade renegotiations ends July 9.

Despite the chilly atmosphere, Trump did share one bright moment with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, finalizing a U.S.–U.K. trade framework first announced in May. But even that included a touch of awkwardness: as Trump waved around the signed agreement, he dropped the papers. Starmer quickly picked them up—explaining afterward that only he could safely approach Trump without alarming security.

“There were quite strict rules about who can get close to the president,” Starmer said. “It wouldn’t have been good for anyone else to step forward.”

Fractured Unity, Lingering Questions

With no major breakthroughs and a summit visibly lacking in unity, questions remain about the G7’s effectiveness in shaping global policy. Macron defended Carney’s leadership, saying it’s unrealistic to expect any host to resolve the world’s biggest problems in a single summit. “That would be unfair,” he said.

Carney himself downplayed Trump’s early departure, saying it was driven by the urgent crisis in the Middle East, not disagreements at the summit. “There was no problem,” he told reporters. “Mr. Trump felt it was better to be in Washington, and I can understand that.”

Still, the optics were hard to ignore: a world grappling with war, rising authoritarianism, and economic uncertainty—and a summit struggling to stay in sync without its most powerful member at the table.

“We did everything I had to do at the G7,” Trump said from Air Force One. But as the headlines and photo ops show, that “everything” may not have been enough.

Source: AP News – G7 leaders fail to reach ambitious joint agreements on key issues after Trump’s exit

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Former President also criticizes Zelensky amid deadly Russian airstrikes

Former President Donald Trump publicly condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday, calling him “absolutely CRAZY” after Russia launched its most devastating aerial assault on Ukraine since the war began over three years ago.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote,

“I’ve always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia, but something has happened to him. He has gone absolutely CRAZY! He is needlessly killing a lot of people… Missiles and drones are being shot into cities in Ukraine for no reason whatsoever.”

Speaking to reporters earlier that day, Trump expressed frustration, saying, “I’m not happy with what Putin is doing. He’s killing a lot of people, and I don’t know what the hell happened to Putin.”

Deadly Assault Shakes Ukraine

Ukrainian officials confirmed that at least 12 people, including children, were killed in the wave of Russian drone and missile strikes. Dozens more were injured. This latest assault is part of an intensifying campaign as pressure builds on Putin to accept a ceasefire deal.

President Volodymyr Zelensky responded by calling out what he described as “America’s silence,” warning that such inaction only encourages Putin’s aggression.

“The world may go on vacation, but the war continues,” Zelensky said. “America’s silence, and the silence of others in the world, only encourages Putin.”

Trump Fires Back at Zelensky

Trump didn’t hold back in his criticism of the Ukrainian leader, either.

“Likewise, President Zelenskyy is doing his country no favors by talking the way he does. Everything out of his mouth causes problems. I don’t like it, and it better stop,” Trump posted.

Sanctions, Ceasefire Talks, and a Surprise Call

Trump also said he is “absolutely” considering additional sanctions on Russia, a shift from his earlier reluctance. “There’s a chance of progress,” he had said before, but now acknowledges the situation could warrant a stronger response.

Just a week earlier, Trump had spoken with Putin in a call that coincided with a separate major drone assault on Ukraine.

“We’re in the middle of talking, and he’s shooting rockets into Kyiv and other cities,” Trump said.

Following that call, Trump also spoke with Zelensky and several European leaders. He later announced that negotiations were being arranged for a 30-day ceasefire and possibly a path toward ending the war entirely.

“Russia and Ukraine will immediately start negotiations toward a ceasefire and, more importantly, an END to the war,” Trump stated, adding that the terms “will be negotiated between the two parties, as it can only be.”

Source: CNN – Trump says Putin ‘has gone absolutely crazy’ after major Russian attack on Ukraine

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Washington, D.C. – A White House meeting between President Donald Trump and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa took an unexpected turn Wednesday when Trump confronted Ramaphosa with a video depicting what he described as the mass killing of White farmers in South Africa.

During the meeting, Trump presented a video showing a roadside lined with white crosses, claiming they were grave markers for Afrikaner farmers allegedly murdered in ongoing violence. The Afrikaners are a White minority in South Africa, largely descended from Dutch settlers who arrived in the 17th century.

“These are burial sites — over a thousand — of White farmers,” Trump said, pointing to the video. “Each one of those white things you see is a cross. The cars you see are stopped to pay respects. It’s a terrible sight.”

President Ramaphosa appeared taken aback and asked for clarification: “Have they told you where that is, Mr. President? I’d like to know where that is. Because this I’ve never seen.”

Trump replied, “I mean, it’s in South Africa, that’s where.”

Ramaphosa responded calmly, “We need to find out.”

Trump Raises Refugee Concerns

Trump also claimed that large numbers of White South African farmers are fleeing to the United States due to violence. “We’ve had a tremendous number of people, especially since they’ve seen this,” he said. “Generally they’re White farmers, and they’re fleeing South Africa. It’s very sad to see.”

According to the Trump administration, 50 Afrikaners were recently brought to the U.S. as refugees, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggesting that more are expected.

South Africa Rejects Genocide Claims

President Ramaphosa strongly denied any systemic targeting or genocide of White farmers. “If there was Afrikaner farmer genocide, I can bet you these three gentlemen wouldn’t be here — including my Minister of Agriculture,” he said. “It will take President Trump listening to their stories, their perspectives — that is the answer to your question.”

When asked by a reporter what he hoped Ramaphosa would do in response to the situation shown in the video, Trump appeared uncertain. “I don’t know. I don’t know,” he said, flipping through a stack of printed news reports.

“Death of people. Death. Death. Horrible death,” he said, before adding, “White South Africans are fleeing because of the violence and racist laws. So when you ask what I would like done — I don’t know what to do.”

Key Takeaways:

• Trump confronted Ramaphosa with a video he claimed shows the aftermath of violence against White farmers.
• Ramaphosa questioned the video’s origin and reaffirmed that there is no genocide taking place.
• The meeting underscored tensions around a controversial and emotionally charged topic, with both leaders offering sharply different views.

Source: FOX News – Trump confronts South African president with video on treatment of White farmers

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Former President Donald Trump announced he will hold a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday, aiming to halt what he called the “bloodbath” of the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Posting on Truth Social Saturday, Trump wrote, “The subjects of the call will be stopping the bloodbath that is killing, on average, more than 5,000 Russian and Ukrainian soldiers a week—and trade.”

A Potential Breakthrough?

This announcement follows a rare face-to-face meeting between Russian and Ukrainian officials in Turkey on Friday—their first direct contact in over three years. That meeting resulted in a prisoner swap deal involving 1,000 captives, but broader peace talks remain elusive.

Trump, who has repeatedly stated that no real progress can be made without direct U.S.-Russia dialogue, said earlier this week:
“I don’t believe anything is going to happen, whether you like it or not, until he and I get together.”

He also noted that he intends to speak with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and NATO leaders after the Putin call.
“Hopefully it will be a productive day, a ceasefire will take place, and this very violent war—a war that should have never happened—will end,” he added.

Kremlin Confirms Talks Are in Motion

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed Saturday that preparations are underway for the Trump-Putin call, telling state media, “The conversation is being prepared.”

While there is no confirmation yet on whether the call could lead to a formal ceasefire, Trump’s involvement has renewed speculation about a possible diplomatic breakthrough.

Turkish Talks Set the Stage

Pressure has been building for Russia to agree to a 30-day ceasefire, a proposal backed by Ukraine and its Western allies. While Putin rejected that idea, he did send a delegation to Turkey for direct talks. However, he did not attend in person—something Trump had anticipated.

“He was gonna go, but he thought I was gonna go,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One earlier this week. “He wasn’t going if I wasn’t there.”

Despite his absence, the talks marked the first steps toward dialogue since 2022, and led to a prisoner exchange agreement.

U.S. Diplomacy in Motion

Secretary of State Marco Rubio also played a role in pushing diplomacy forward, speaking with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Saturday. According to State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce, Rubio reiterated America’s push for an immediate ceasefire and praised the prisoner swap deal.

“The United States is committed to achieving a lasting end to the Russia-Ukraine war,” Bruce said in a statement. “The comprehensive peace plan proposed by the United States outlines the best way forward.”

Rubio later posted on X, “Let’s not miss this huge opportunity. The time for ending this war is now.”

Trump: ‘Time for Me and Putin to Talk’

Speaking on Fox News Friday, Trump voiced his frustration with others taking the lead on negotiations.

“I’m tired of having other people go and meet,” he said. “There can’t be a deal without me. I think we’ll probably schedule it, because Putin wants this meeting too.”

Trump stopped short of blaming Putin directly for the prolonged war but suggested the Russian leader was also growing weary.

“Putin is tired of this whole thing,” Trump said. “He’s not looking good. He wants to look good. Don’t forget, this was supposed to end in one week.”

As Monday’s high-stakes call approaches, all eyes will be on whether Trump can nudge both sides toward a ceasefire—or at least open the door for serious negotiations.

Source: CNN – Trump says he will speak to Putin on the phone Monday

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As President Donald Trump’s trade negotiating team prepared for crucial talks with China, something unexpected happened—Trump took to social media to stir the pot before the official discussions even began. It was a typical move for the unpredictable leader, though it left Chinese officials puzzled and intrigued.

Trump’s surprise announcement suggested that he might reduce his 145% tariffs on Chinese imports to 80%. This public declaration, made just hours before key meetings in Geneva, appeared to be a negotiation tactic—a way to play his hand early. However, it wasn’t really a shock to his inner circle. In fact, internal discussions had already touched on the possibility of lowering tariffs as part of broader negotiations with China.

But it was certainly new information for Chinese officials, who are still trying to interpret Trump’s next move. Trump also mentioned Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in the post, presenting him as the final decision-maker. This, however, was a strategic move aimed at elevating Bessent’s status in front of Chinese negotiators. In reality, both Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping would be the key players in any major deal.

The Talks Begin in Geneva

Bessent, along with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, arrived in Geneva for two days of high-level meetings with top Chinese officials. These talks weren’t expected to deliver immediate breakthroughs, but both sides were hopeful for tangible outcomes.

The White House has framed the U.S.-China negotiations as a distinct track from the broader array of trade deals Trump’s team is pursuing with other nations. While some of those deals, like those with South Korea and Japan, are seen as pressure points on China, the discussions in Geneva were focused more specifically on de-escalation and building trust between the two countries.

Trump’s team is aiming for gradual steps, including possible moves to address fentanyl production and the revival of the Phase One trade deal from his first term. Both sides also face concerns over rare earths export controls, though a comprehensive agreement would likely take years to negotiate.

Trump’s “Wild Card” Negotiation Style

Trump’s negotiating style is anything but conventional. He’s known for being a wild card—someone who can dramatically shift the course of negotiations at any moment. His team, though, is working hard to ensure that these meetings don’t descend into chaos. There have been promising signs that the U.S. and China are approaching the talks with a greater degree of respect and professionalism.

Top Chinese officials, including Xi’s economic advisor He Lifeng, are leading the delegation, signaling the seriousness of the discussions. On the U.S. side, Bessent and Greer are highly respected figures in Trump’s economic circle, ensuring that both sides have experienced negotiators at the table.

The Big Picture: Trump’s Focus on China

Trump’s approach to China has been deeply strategic. While there’s no shortage of tension in the U.S.-China relationship, Trump’s team believes that China cannot sustain a prolonged trade war with the U.S. The Chinese economy, already fragile, would be severely strained by a continued standoff with the world’s largest economy.

In the lead-up to these talks, Chinese officials have quietly reached out to U.S. counterparts, suggesting a willingness to address Trump’s key concerns—like the fentanyl issue. For Trump, striking a sweeping economic deal with China has been a long-standing goal, one he’s pursued with unwavering determination. His ambition to secure such a deal may be likened to his desire for a Nobel Peace Prize—an elusive but powerful symbol of success.

As the talks unfold, there’s a sense that Trump may push for a grand bargain, one that could reshape the economic landscape for both nations. But as always, the question remains: Will Trump stick to his strategy, or will he throw another curveball? Time will tell.

Source: CNN – Inside Trump’s negotiating strategy with China

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