News
On April 28, 2025, a massive power outage affected millions of people in Spain and Portugal, leaving them without electricity for nearly 18 hours. The blackout was the largest in Europe's history, with trains, traffic lights, ATMs, phone connections, and internet access failing across the Iberian Peninsula. What
May-2025
U.S.–China Trade Agreement Reached On May 11, the United States and China announced a 90-day agreement to reduce tariffs, marking a de-escalation in their ongoing trade tensions. Under the terms, U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods will decrease from 145% to 30%, while China will lower its tariffs
May-2025
Legal Proceedings Sean "Diddy" Combs Trial Underway On May 5, 2025, the trial of music executive Sean "Diddy" Combs commenced in New York. Combs faces federal charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering. The indictment alleges a pattern of criminal activity spanning from 1991 to 2024, involving
May-2025
Politics & Government U.S.-UK Trade Agreement Finalized On May 9, the United States and the United Kingdom concluded a trade agreement that removes U.S. tariffs on British steel, aluminum, and automotive exports. In return, the UK will reduce tariffs on U.S. ethanol and beef. This agreement
May-2025
U.S.–U.K. Trade Agreement Finalized On May 8, 2025, the United States and the United Kingdom announced a new trade agreement. The deal reduces U.S. tariffs on British cars, steel, and aluminum, while the U.K. agreed to lower tariffs on U.S. agricultural products, including beef
May-2025
Domestic Affairs Columbia University Protest On May 7, pro-Palestinian demonstrators at Columbia University entered Butler Library, leading to confrontations with campus security. Some protesters were detained after refusing to present identification. The university subsequently called in New York police to clear the sit-in. The Guardian+2New York Post+2U.S.
May-2025
U.S. and Canada Discuss Trade and Sovereignty President Donald Trump met with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at the White House. The meeting addressed trade relations and U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods. President Trump suggested that Canada might benefit from becoming a U.S. state, to which Prime
May-2025
Politics & Policy Immigration Initiatives: The Trump administration introduced a voluntary departure program offering $1,000 to undocumented immigrants who agree to leave the U.S. via the CBP Home app. The Department of Homeland Security indicated that participation might facilitate future legal re-entry. Additionally, President Trump questioned the necessity
May-2025
Federal Policy and Executive Actions * Alcatraz Reopening Directive: President Donald Trump announced plans to reopen and expand the Alcatraz Island prison facility in San Francisco Bay. The administration has not yet provided details regarding the timeline or specific use cases for the facility. * Proposed Tariff on Foreign Films: President Trump
May-2025
Economic Developments First Quarter Economic Contraction The U.S. economy contracted by 0.3% in the first quarter of 2025, marking the first decline in three years. This downturn was attributed to a surge in imports as companies sought to preempt impending tariffs. In response, President Trump signed an executive
May-2025
Economic and Market Developments Stock Market Activity On May 2, U.S. stock futures experienced gains, with the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average each rising approximately 0.4%, and the Nasdaq Composite increasing by 0.2%. This uptick followed reports that China is considering re-engaging in
News
Nationwide May Day Protests On May 1, 2025, demonstrations occurred across the United States as part of International Workers' Day. Organized under movements like "50501" and "May Day Strong," these protests addressed labor rights, immigration policies, and economic inequality. Events took place in numerous cities,