Trump Orders Withdrawal from 66 International Organizations
President Donald Trump has ordered the United States to withdraw from 66 international organizations, including 31 United Nations agencies, citing misalignment with U.S. interests. The decision affects key entities such as the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the UN Population Fund, which support global cooperation on climate issues and maternal health, respectively. UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed regret over the withdrawal but affirmed that the UN will continue to fulfill its mandates.
Trump directs Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to buy $200 billion in mortgage bonds
US President Donald Trump has directed housing agencies Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to purchase $200 billion in mortgage bonds, aiming to lower housing costs ahead of the November midterm elections. Bill Pulte, director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, confirmed the agencies will carry out the purchases, stating they have sufficient liquidity for the initiative.
House passes $174 billion spending package to avert shutdown
The U.S. House of Representatives passed a $174 billion spending package with a vote of 397-28, aimed at preventing a government shutdown at the end of January. The legislation, which received bipartisan support, allocates funds for the Departments of Commerce, Justice, Energy, and the Interior, among others, and includes $3 billion for specific community projects. The package will now move to the Senate for consideration, where it is expected to pass.
Senate advances resolution limiting Trump's military action in Venezuela
The U.S. Senate voted 52-47 to advance a bipartisan resolution that would restrict President Donald Trump's ability to use military force in Venezuela without congressional approval. Five Republican senators joined all 47 Democrats in supporting the measure, which is expected to be debated in the coming week, although its passage in the House remains unlikely. The resolution reflects growing concerns within Trump's own party regarding his military actions in Venezuela, which he has undertaken without congressional authorization.
ICE Agent Fatally Shoots Woman in Minneapolis Incident
Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old U.S. citizen and mother, was fatally shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent in Minneapolis after allegedly attempting to run over an officer with her vehicle during an immigration enforcement operation. The incident occurred shortly after she dropped off her 6-year-old son at school, amidst heightened immigration enforcement in the area. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that the officer was treated for injuries after being struck by Good's vehicle.
FBI Excludes Minnesota Police from ICE Shooting Investigation
The FBI has barred Minnesota state law enforcement from participating in the investigation into the shooting death of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent, prompting criticism from Governor Tim Walz. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that local authorities have 'no jurisdiction' in the matter, while differing accounts of the incident have emerged, with Noem claiming Good attempted to 'weaponise her vehicle' and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey accusing the agent of 'recklessly using power.' Protests against ICE have erupted in Minneapolis, with hundreds of demonstrators marching in response to the shooting.
