Trump's Wild Week: Putin Calls, Judge Battles, and SHOCKING JFK Files!

2025-03-18 18:02:10.072

President Donald Trump engaged in a high-stakes phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, discussing the ongoing war in Ukraine. Both leaders agreed to initiate talks on a ceasefire focused on energy and infrastructure, although details regarding a broader truce remain unclear. The White House readout emphasized the pursuit of lasting peace and improved US-Russia relations. Meanwhile, the Trump administration faced scrutiny over weekend deportation flights, with a federal judge demanding answers regarding compliance with a court order. President Trump responded by calling for the judge's impeachment, prompting a rebuke from Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts. In other news, President Trump announced plans to release unredacted files related to the assassination of John F. Kennedy. The situation in Gaza escalated as Israel launched strikes following a shattered ceasefire, having consulted with the Trump administration beforehand. Concerns emerged over potential disruptions to HIV/AIDS treatments in eight countries due to cuts in US Agency for International Development (USAID) programs. The World Health Organization warned of potentially devastating consequences, including millions of additional HIV cases and deaths. The Justice Department provided details on the deportation flights, asserting compliance with the court order, while the judge requested further information. A Russian source described the Trump-Putin call as positive, contrasting with reports of ongoing tensions. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker expressed disappointment with the Democratic Party's handling of a continuing resolution vote, urging stronger opposition to the Trump administration's policies. The Social Security Administration is downsizing its workforce, leading to concerns about potential impacts on customer service. Chief Justice Roberts rebuked President Trump's calls for impeaching judges, emphasizing that impeachment is not an appropriate response to judicial decisions. Democratic Senators Ruben Gallego and Mark Kelly addressed concerns about potential Medicaid cuts under Republican budget plans. The White House confirmed a phone call between President Trump and Vladimir Putin, focusing on potential concessions from Russia regarding the Ukraine conflict. The Trump administration is reportedly planning significant cuts to the Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Research and Development, potentially eliminating thousands of jobs. ICE agents defended their weekend deportations, claiming thorough vetting of migrants. Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio were present at the White House during the anticipated Trump-Putin call. Contrasting views within the Trump administration emerged regarding the likelihood of a US recession. President Trump renewed his attacks on a federal judge who temporarily blocked the deportation of migrants, calling for his impeachment. The Trump administration promoted two IRS whistleblowers who accused prosecutors of leniency towards Hunter Biden. Postmaster Louis DeJoy defended his decision to seek advice from the Department of Government Efficiency. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer defended his vote on the stopgap spending bill, citing the need to prevent a government shutdown. Democratic leaders released a joint statement addressing concerns about Medicaid cuts. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard addressed misconceptions surrounding President Trump's "America First" policy. President Trump is set to release 80,000 records related to the JFK assassination, although an expert suggests no major revelations are expected. A federal judge demanded further information from the Trump administration regarding the deportation flights.