Trump halts US military aid to Ukraine
US President Donald Trump has ordered a "suspension" of US military aid to Ukraine as he seeks to pressure the Ukrainian president to engage in peace talks with Russia.
A White House official said Trump is focused on reaching a peace deal to end the more than three-year war sparked by Russia's all-out invasion of Ukraine and wants Zelensky to be "committed" to that goal.
The official added that the US was "pausing and reviewing" its aid to "ensure it is contributing to a solution."
China retaliates against US imports as Trump's new tariffs take effect
China swiftly retaliated against the new US tariffs, announcing a 10%-15% increase in import taxes covering a range of US agricultural and food products, bringing the world's two largest economies one step closer to an all-out trade war.
Beijing also placed twenty-five American firms under export and investment restrictions on national security grounds, but refrained from sanctioning well-known names, as it did when it retaliated against the Trump administration's February 4 tariffs.
Von der Leyen announces 'Rearmament of Europe' plan
European Union Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she will inform member states about plans to strengthen the European defense industry and the EU's military capabilities, VOA writes.
"Tomorrow I will inform member states through a letter about the Rearmament of Europe plan. There is no doubt that we need a massive increase in defense. We want lasting peace, but lasting peace can only be built through strength, which begins with strengthening ourselves," she said.
European Union leaders will hold urgent talks on Thursday to provide military support to Kiev and prepare a peacekeeping force for possible deployment in Ukraine.
Pope Francis' health condition worsens again
Pope Francis has suffered two episodes of difficulty breathing, caused by mucus buildup and narrowing of the airways, according to a Vatican report. He underwent two bronchoscopies where doctors removed secretions. After the procedure, the pope used an oxygen mask to help him breathe, but was conscious the entire time.
The Vatican later said the Pope was in good condition but would continue to be monitored by doctors. This comes after a long period of health concerns for the Pope, including surgery in 2021 to remove part of his intestine and ongoing health problems.
