Greetings from Amman, Jordan, where history lent a colossal hand

Former U.S. diplomat Kurt Volker discussed the Trump administration's unconventional approach to negotiating a peace deal for Ukraine, highlighting the complexities and challenges involved in the ongoing conflict. The administration's latest strategy includes a 28-point peace plan that has raised significant concerns regarding territorial concessions from Ukraine to Russia.

Former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink discussed Ukraine's current stance on a proposed peace deal during an interview with NPR's Steve Inskeep, highlighting the complexities of the negotiations amid ongoing conflict with Russia.

NPR's Michel Martin interviewed former U.S. Ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul regarding the potential for a revised peace plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The discussion centers on how the U.S. can effectively communicate and negotiate this new approach with both parties involved.

Pope Leo XIV is set to embark on his inaugural foreign trip to Turkey and Lebanon, a pilgrimage that comes amid rising tensions in the Middle East, particularly following recent violence in Beirut. This journey marks a significant moment in history as it is the first international visit by an American pope, drawing considerable media attention.

Syrians displaced by the ongoing conflict are returning to their homes in northern Syria, only to find their properties occupied by foreign fighters. Nearly a year after the war's end, the issue of property ownership remains unresolved, complicating the reintegration of returnees into their communities.

Russia has launched new strikes on Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, resulting in casualties and damage to infrastructure, as both nations consider a proposed peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing conflict. This escalation follows a series of attacks that have intensified military operations in the region.

NPR's Michel Martin interviewed Russia-U.S. relations expert Julia Ioffe to discuss Russia's objectives in a potential peace deal with Ukraine. The conversation highlights Russia's desire for security guarantees and territorial concessions from Ukraine as part of any agreement.

US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to classify specific branches of the Muslim Brotherhood in Lebanon, Egypt, and Jordan as foreign terrorist organizations, delegating the completion of this designation to top US diplomats and Treasury officials.