Germany's Next Leader Calls for European Military Independence from US
Friedrich Merz, poised to become Germany's chancellor after his party's electoral victory, advocates for European military autonomy following Trump's controversial NATO statements. The Christian Democratic Union's win comes amid growing concerns about US commitment to European security.
Trump Fires Joint Chiefs Chairman in Unprecedented Military Leadership Shake-up
In a dramatic overhaul of Pentagon leadership, President Trump has dismissed General Charles Brown Jr. and five other top military officials. The controversial move breaks with tradition of military continuity across administrations and has sparked mixed reactions from Congress.
Pentagon Faces Major Budget Overhaul: Secretary Hegseth Orders 8% Annual Cuts
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has directed an ambitious 8% annual reduction in Pentagon spending over five years, while protecting critical defense programs. The $68 billion yearly cuts align with President Trump's vision for reduced military spending pending improved geopolitical conditions.
CIA Deploys Surveillance Drones Over Mexico in Escalated War on Drug Cartels
The Trump administration has expanded covert CIA drone operations to monitor Mexican drug cartels and fentanyl production facilities. While currently focused on intelligence gathering, the program signals an increasingly aggressive U.S. approach to combating cartels.
Ukraine NATO Membership Still Possible, US Officials Send Mixed Signals
Senior US officials offer conflicting statements about Ukraine's potential NATO membership and territorial claims in future peace negotiations. Trump administration prepares for talks with Russia while expressing skepticism about Ukraine joining NATO, citing it as a potential cause of the war.
Trump Unveils Historic F35 Fighter Jet Deal with India in White House Summit
In a landmark diplomatic move, President Trump announced plans to sell advanced F-35 stealth fighters to India during PM Modi's White House visit. The deal marks a major milestone in U.S.-India defense partnership while strengthening bilateral trade relations.
NATO Reports Record 20% Surge in European Defense Spending
NATO's European members and Canada have dramatically increased defense spending by 20% in 2024, reaching $485 billion amid growing security concerns. The boost comes as 23 of 32 alliance members now meet the 2% GDP target, while the US pushes for even higher contributions.
Trump Pentagon Strips Gen. Milley of Security Clearance in Swift Retribution
The Pentagon has revoked former Joint Chiefs chairman Gen. Mark Milley's security clearance and protective detail under new Trump administration directives. The controversial move comes amid an investigation into Milley's conduct and follows his prior criticism of Trump as a 'wannabe dictator.'
Trump Dismisses Canadian Trade, Suggests Statehood at Davos Forum
Former President Trump declared the US doesn't need Canadian energy, vehicles or lumber during a virtual address at Davos, threatening 25% tariffs on imports. His controversial remarks included suggesting Canada could avoid tariffs by becoming the 51st US state.