Italy Slams Brakes on NATO Program to Buy US Weapons for Ukraine

US private payrolls experienced a decline in November, with small businesses shedding jobs, reflecting ongoing challenges in the labor market. This downturn follows a trend of decreasing payrolls, as reported by ADP Research, which indicated an average loss of 13,500 jobs per week in the four weeks leading to November 4.

Scott Bessent stated that China is on track to fulfill its commitments regarding US soybean purchases, indicating a positive momentum in agricultural trade relations between the two nations. This follows a series of significant transactions, including China's largest soybean buy from the US in two years, which has buoyed prices and encouraged sales from struggling farmers.

Hungary confirmed that oil flows from Russia through the Druzhba oil pipeline have continued despite a recent attack attributed to Ukraine. This development underscores the resilience of energy supply routes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

A recent Swiss poll has revealed strong opposition among voters to a proposed trade deal with the United States, indicating significant public discontent regarding international trade agreements. This sentiment reflects broader concerns about the implications of such deals on local economies and industries.

US private payrolls unexpectedly declined by 32,000 jobs in November, following an upwardly revised increase of 47,000 jobs in October, according to the ADP employment report. This decline contrasts with economists' expectations of a 10,000 job increase for November, highlighting a potential slowdown in the job market.

US import prices remained unexpectedly flat in September, indicating a pause in inflationary pressures on imported goods. This stability comes amidst fluctuating market conditions and evolving economic indicators.

Ukraine's parliament has approved the 2026 state budget, a crucial step in the process of securing a new loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This decision reflects the government's commitment to fiscal stability amid ongoing challenges.

In November, US private employers reduced their workforce by 32,000 jobs, indicating a significant contraction in the labor market, particularly among small businesses. This decline follows a trend of decreasing payrolls, as highlighted by recent data showing an average loss of 13,500 jobs per week in early November.