Trump freezes Afghan visas after DC shooting — as he quietly eyes land strikes in Venezuela

Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.) criticized the White House for lacking 'moral clarity' regarding the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, urging the administration to take a stronger stance in support of Ukraine during peace negotiations. He expressed concerns that the current approach may undermine the democratic nation amidst the conflict.

Several lawmakers are demanding accountability from the Trump administration following reports of a second U.S. military strike on a vessel accused of drug trafficking off the coast of Venezuela. This incident, which occurred on September 2, has raised concerns about potential war crimes and the legality of such military actions.

The United States has deployed 11 warships and approximately 15,000 troops to the Caribbean amid escalating tensions with Venezuela. The Secretary of the Navy emphasized the importance of utilizing the nation's best assets to protect the homeland. This military buildup is seen as a significant response to ongoing concerns regarding Venezuela's activities, particularly accusations against its government related to drug trafficking.

An Afghan immigrant, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, allegedly shot and critically injured two members of the West Virginia National Guard near the White House on November 26, 2025. Prior to this incident, advocates had raised concerns about Lakanwal's mental health, indicating he was 'not functional as a person' and that his mental health crisis had gone unaddressed for over a year.

Former CIA Moscow station chief has cautioned that Russian President Vladimir Putin may leverage ongoing negotiations regarding Ukraine to gain a tactical advantage on the battlefield, rather than seeking genuine peace. This warning comes as a Ukrainian delegation engages with top officials from the Trump administration.

Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) announced plans to refile a war powers resolution that would require congressional approval for any military action in Venezuela, expressing optimism about gaining bipartisan support this time. This move comes amid rising tensions regarding U.S. involvement in Venezuela's political situation.

A leaked phone call involving U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and a senior Russian official has raised significant concerns among U.S. lawmakers, particularly Rep. Mike Turner, who stated that the White House should be very concerned about the implications of this communication. The call reportedly involved discussions on how to present a peace proposal regarding Ukraine to President Trump.

Mourners gathered at a West Virginia high school to honor Sarah Beckstrom, a National Guard member who was fatally shot in a targeted attack in Washington, D.C. last week. Beckstrom was remembered as a caring individual who dedicated her life to helping others, reflecting the profound loss felt by her community.