Trump Administration Live Updates: President Says the U.S. Will Stop Bombing Houthi Militants
The United States and the Houthi militants, who control much of Yemen, have reached an agreement to end U.S. aerial campaigns aimed at countering the group's attacks on vessels in vital shipping lanes. Oman’s foreign minister, who mediated the deal, stated that “neither side will target the other.” President Trump reported that the Houthis expressed a desire to cease hostilities, but a spokesman for the group indicated that military operations would continue in support of Gaza.
During a meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney of Canada, Trump and Carney discussed trade relations, with Trump alluding to the possibility of making Canada the 51st state. Carney responded firmly, asserting that “some places are not for sale.”
Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins rebuffed claims that his department would cut over 80,000 jobs, clarifying that the numbers cited were merely goals and accusing Democrats of fear-mongering regarding veterans' care.
A federal judge in Manhattan has issued an injunction preventing the Trump administration from withholding $1 billion in Covid-related aid for schools. The ruling comes after a lawsuit from 16 attorneys general and Pennsylvania’s governor, aiming to protect funding intended for students affected by the pandemic.
In related news, top officials from the Trump administration will meet with their Chinese counterparts in Switzerland for the first trade discussions since significant tariff increases were implemented. The meeting aims to address the ongoing trade standoff between the two nations.
The Department of Education announced an investigation into a school district in upstate New York for its policy allowing transgender athletes to compete in women's sports, which has raised concerns about potential violations of federal civil rights law.
In a separate development, a group of immigration nonprofits has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration over the cancellation of a program providing legal representation to immigrants with mental disabilities.
During the same press conference, President Trump stated that three hostages held in Gaza have died, with 21 still remaining. The administration's efforts to secure their release continue amidst rising tensions.
Amid ongoing discussions about trade, Trump indicated that there is no urgency to finalize agreements with other countries, suggesting that they need the U.S. market more than the U.S. needs theirs.
Trump reiterated that his administration would not fund California's high-speed rail project, citing significant cost overruns and inefficiencies. This decision follows a review of how the state is utilizing federal grants.
In a significant shift, Trump announced that the U.S. would stop airstrikes against Houthi militants, following their indicated desire for peace. However, the Houthis have stated they will continue military support for Gaza.
Finally, President Trump teased an important announcement expected soon but did not disclose details, prompting speculation about its content and significance.