Stories that are getting the most attention from our readers this month.
Washington, D.C.: President Trump condemned President Putin as “absolutely CRAZY” following Russia’s largest drone attack on Ukraine but simultaneously scolded Ukrainian President Zelenskiy to “shut up” about endless requests for aid. Despite hinting at new sanctions on Moscow, Trump’s rebuke of Zelenskiy startled Kyiv’s allies. Critics say it weakens Western unity; supporters claim it’s part of Trump’s transactional approach.
Washington, D.C., USA: Ed Martin, newly installed at the Justice Department as pardon attorney, is fast-tracking an application from Stewart Rhodes, the Oath Keepers founder convicted of seditious conspiracy. Critics worry Martin’s alignment with Jan. 6 defendants and concurrent role in a “weaponization working group” could mix political goals with pardon decisions. Some fear the White House may use pardons to reward allies and target opponents, while Martin argues he’s merely expediting due process.