G20 summit closes in South Africa after U.S. absence

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.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has aligned with President Trump in advocating for the elimination of the Senate's filibuster rule, citing the recent government shutdown as a significant issue caused by Senate Democrats. Bessent emphasized that the American public is emerging from a prolonged and damaging shutdown, which he attributes to the obstructionist tactics of the opposition party.

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.

Former National Security Council member Eugene Vindman has called for the release of a transcript from a 2019 phone call between former President Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, particularly in light of the ongoing scrutiny surrounding the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. This demand has reignited discussions about the U.S.-Saudi relationship and Trump's foreign policy decisions during his presidency.

The Kyiv suburb of Bucha, marked by mass graves and the scars of Russian occupation, is grappling with a sense of betrayal as a U.S.-led peace proposal suggests a blanket amnesty for war criminals. This proposal has left residents, who have endured significant trauma, feeling abandoned and anxious about the implications for justice and accountability.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that he does not foresee a recession in the U.S. by 2026, expressing confidence in the economy during a recent interview. He acknowledged some sectors are experiencing economic strain but remains optimistic about overall recovery.

Ukraine and several Western allies convened in Geneva to deliberate on a U.S. peace proposal aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia, which includes significant concessions to Moscow. This meeting highlights the complexities of international diplomacy in the context of the war that has persisted since Russia's invasion nearly four years ago.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed optimism regarding the U.S. economy during an interview on Meet the Press, despite acknowledging economic struggles in the housing sector and interest rate-sensitive areas that are currently in recession. He believes the economy will not enter a recession and remains hopeful for recovery by 2026.