US News Headlines May 11th 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 on U.S. products from 125% to 10%. The agreement followed negotiations in Geneva between U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng. The announcement led to a 2.8% rise in S&P 500 futures and a 0.7% increase in the U.S. dollar .The Guardian+2Financial Times+2Scripps News+2
Legal Proceedings Against Sean 'Diddy' Combs
Sean "Diddy" Combs is currently on trial in New York, facing federal charges including sex trafficking and racketeering. The indictment alleges that Combs led a criminal enterprise involving sexual exploitation and forced labor over two decades, with over 120 accusers coming forward. The trial began on May 5 and is expected to last at least eight weeks. Combs denies all allegations and remains in custody after being denied bail .The Guardian+1Wikipedia+1
Ceasefire Between U.S. and Houthi Forces in Yemen
A ceasefire between the United States and Yemen's Houthi movement took effect on May 6, ending U.S. airstrikes that began in March. Brokered by Oman, the agreement includes the Houthis halting attacks on vessels in the Red Sea. However, the Houthis stated that the ceasefire does not apply to Israel. The U.S. and Houthi sides have offered differing interpretations of the agreement's implications .Wikipedia
Arrest of Newark Mayor During Detention Center Visit
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested during a visit to a federal immigration detention center, accompanied by Democratic members of Congress. Lawmakers allege that federal officials created a confrontation leading to the arrest. The incident has raised concerns about the treatment of public officials and the handling of immigration enforcement actions .New York Post+3The Guardian+3The Guardian+3
Controversy Over Gifted Aircraft from Qatar
Reports indicate that the Trump administration is preparing to accept a Boeing 747-8 aircraft, valued at approximately $400 million, from Qatar's royal family. The aircraft is intended for use as Air Force One. The acceptance of such a gift from a foreign government has prompted discussions about ethics and transparency in government dealings .New York Post+1ABC News+1ABC News
Economic Indicators and Market Reactions
Following the U.S.–China trade agreement, stock markets and the U.S. dollar experienced gains, while gold prices declined. The easing of trade tensions contributed to increased investor confidence and a rebound in risk appetite .Bloomberg+2Financial Times+2Bloomberg+2Bloomberg+1Bloomberg+1
Papal Address Calls for Peace
In his first Sunday address, Pope Leo XIV called for peace in Gaza and Ukraine. The pontiff's message emphasized the importance of dialogue and reconciliation in conflict zones .Wikipedia+2PBS+2Wikipedia+2