Bessent joins Trump's push to end filibuster

President Donald Trump intensified tensions in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia peace talks by accusing Ukrainian leaders of showing 'zero gratitude' for U.S. support, coinciding with U.S. officials' efforts in Geneva to present a united front. This remark comes as Trump pushes for acceptance of a controversial peace plan that includes significant territorial concessions from Ukraine.

Canada’s Prime Minister announced that trade talks with the United States will resume at an appropriate time, following the suspension of negotiations by President Trump due to an anti-tariff advertisement from Ontario's provincial government. This decision reflects ongoing tensions in trade relations between the two countries.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene announced her resignation from Congress, effective January 5, 2026, following a significant breakdown in her relationship with former President Donald Trump and the Republican Party. This decision comes amid public disputes regarding loyalty and support, marking a notable shift from her previous alignment with Trump.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the recent rise in inflation is not linked to President Trump's tariffs during an interview on NBC News's 'Meet the Press.' He addressed the administration's decision to roll back tariffs on over 200 food products, emphasizing that these changes are not the cause of inflationary pressures.

Senator Mark Kelly has called for Republican lawmakers to denounce former President Trump's recent threats against him and other Democratic lawmakers, who suggested that military personnel could refuse illegal orders. Kelly emphasized the lack of response from Republicans, describing it as 'crickets' in the face of Trump's incendiary comments.

The G20 summit in Johannesburg concluded without a ceremonial handover to the United States, which boycotted the event, leading to heightened diplomatic tensions. The absence of U.S. representation marked a significant deviation from the traditional transition of leadership among G20 nations.

Organized crime groups in Mexico have escalated their threats against U.S. companies and their employees, leading to a significant labor shortage of truck drivers and a surge in violent hijackings. This situation has compelled companies to enhance security measures and advocate for intervention from the Trump administration.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked President Trump for his support amid criticism that Ukraine has shown 'zero gratitude' towards the U.S. However, Zelensky also distanced Ukraine from a new U.S. peace plan, indicating concerns about its implications for the nation.