Trump delivers his first speech before Congress
President Donald Trump addressed a joint session of Congress in a televised address Tuesday, six weeks into his second term as U.S. president. Trump's speech focused almost entirely on domestic issues.
At the end of the speech, he discussed the war in Ukraine, the Middle East, or national security in general. And when he did, he reiterated his goal of acquiring Greenland and the Panama Canal, while adding that the war in Ukraine must stop.
Trump said he received a letter earlier in the day from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, saying he was ready to sign a proposed deal on critical minerals between the two nations.
Meloni rejects EU proposal to send Italian troops to Ukraine
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has categorically rejected a proposal by France and the UK to send military troops to Ukraine. She stressed that she has doubts about the effectiveness of this proposal, while stressing that her country will not send soldiers to Ukraine.
She also stressed the importance of Western unity on this issue. However, Meloni added that her country is open to mediating between Ukraine and the US, "flattening" the conflicts created between Trump and Zelensky.
Von der Leyen presents €800 billion plan to strengthen EU defense
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has presented a five-step, €800 billion plan to rearm the European Union and support Ukraine. She stressed that Europe's security is under threat and that "more must be done."
"Europe is ready to assume its responsibilities," von der Leyen said.
The approval process for the plan will involve discussions within European institutions, including the European Commission, the European Council and the European Parliament.
Canada announces retaliatory tariffs against the US
Canada has responded immediately to the US regarding the additional 25% tariffs. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced today a 25% tax on $30 billion worth of US imports, effective immediately.
Tariffs on another $125 billion in US goods will take effect within 21 days, he added.
Mexico's president said retaliatory tariffs against the US would be announced on Sunday.
Economists have warned that President Trump's aggressive moves could cause negative consequences globally, including fueling inflation that could hurt consumers.
