ACTUAL NEWS Briefing: June 4th 2025

Olga Nesterova
2 days ago
13 min read

QUICK HITS

Trump Doubles Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum Imports

President Trump announced a tariff hike on U.S. steel and aluminum imports, raising duties from 25% to 50%.

In a proclamation, Trump claimed that foreign imports "undercut the competitiveness" of domestic industries. The measure affects all countries exporting steel and aluminum to the U.S.—with the exception of the United Kingdom—and arrives amid ongoing legal battles and tense trade negotiations.

The increase was enacted under Section 232, a legal provision related to national security. This is separate from the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), which a U.S. court struck down last week before an appeals court temporarily reinstated its use.
Trump said the UK was exempt from the new tariffs due to a bilateral interim economic deal reached on May 8.
Although China signed an interim agreement with the U.S. on May 12, it was not spared from the tariff increase. Both nations have accused each other of violating the deal—Washington says Beijing has failed to approve rare earth exports, while Beijing criticizes U.S. restrictions on semiconductors and planned student visa cancellations.

Trump and Musk Clash Over 'Big Beautiful Bill'

The feud began when Trump posted a message blaming Senator Rand Paul for threatening to vote against his budget proposal.

Shortly after, Elon Musk publicly criticized the bill.

...and then retweeted Rand Paul’s statement on the matter.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, speaking to reporters, said:

“I’ve come to consider Elon a good friend. He’s obviously a very intelligent person who’s done a lot of great work. But with all due respect, my friend Elon is terribly wrong about the one big beautiful bill.”

Ukrainian Intelligence Destroys Part of Crimean Bridge in Pre-Dawn Attack

At 4:44 a.m. Tuesday,Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) detonated 1,100 kilograms of explosives beneath the supports of the Crimean Bridge, rendering the structure critically damaged. This is the third successful strike on the bridge, a key Russian supply route. No civilian casualties were reported.

SBU Chief Vasyl Maliuk declared: “Crimea is Ukraine. No illegal Russian object is safe. We finish what we start.”

Norway Pledges $1 Billion in Energy Aid to Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Norway will help cover a €1 billion ($1.08 billion) gas shortfall following a June 2 meeting with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in Vilnius.

Sumy Attacked with Cluster Munitions

The city of Sumy, Ukraine, was hit by long-range MLRS fire loaded with cluster munitions, recording four impacts in separate residential areas.

“Their goal was to eliminate as many civilians as possible,” a Ukrainian official said.

(Images withheld due to graphic content.)

Ukraine Foils Russia’s Largest Planned Missile Strike

Russia’s planned “Operation Zeus’ Lightning”—what would have been the largest cruise missile attack on all of

Ukraine—was preemptively foiled on the night of June 1. Ukrainian drones struck Russian bombers at airfields hours before takeoff, destroying multiple fully fueled aircraft.

Trump, Putin Speak Following Ukrainian Strikes

Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke by phone with Donald Trump on Wednesday, warning that Moscow would "have to respond" to recent Ukrainian drone attacks. Trump confirmed the conversation and said they discussed: “The attack on Russia’s docked airplanes by Ukraine, and various other strikes carried out by both sides."

Let’s not forget that Ukraine is the victim of an unprovoked invasion by a murderous Russian regime—and this war could end at any time if Russia simply withdrew from Ukraine.

TODAY IN HISTORY

781 BC – The oldest known Chinese recording of a solar eclipse is made.

1039 – Henry III becomes Holy Roman Emperor after the death of his father, Conrad II.

1411 – King Charles VI of France grants a monopoly to ripen Roquefort cheese, recognizing its regional importance.

1561 – The steeple of Old St Paul's Cathedral in London is destroyed by a lightning strike.

1783 – The Montgolfier brothers give the first public demonstration of a hot air balloon in Annonay, France.

1792 – Captain George Vancouver claims Puget Sound for Great Britain during his exploration of the Pacific Northwest.

1913 – British suffragette Emily Davison is fatally injured after stepping in front of King George V’s horse at the Epsom Derby.

1940 – Operation Dynamo, the Dunkirk evacuation, ends with more than 338,000 Allied soldiers rescued from Nazi-occupied France.

1942 – The Battle of Midway begins between the United States and Japan, marking a turning point in the Pacific theater of WWII.

1961 – U.S. President John F. Kennedy meets Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev in Vienna, a summit marked by Cold War tensions.

1979 – Flight Lieutenant Jerry Rawlings takes power in Ghana through a military coup.

1989 – Chinese troops open fire on pro-democracy protesters in Beijing's Tiananmen Square, resulting in a violent crackdown.

1998 – Terry Nichols is sentenced to life in prison for his role in the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing.

2001 – Gyanendra becomes King of Nepal following the massacre of nearly the entire royal family.

QUICK ACTUAL NEWS

NATIONAL

The area of Alaska where the Trump administration plans to permit drilling and mining spans 23 million acres of untouched wilderness—land the Biden administration had previously sought to protect.
The Justice Department, which is investigating the Harvard Law Review over alleged "discrimination against white men", revealed it has a cooperating witness inside the student-run journal. That individual is now employed at the White House.
President Trump issued a presidential memorandum directing a formal investigation into the "legitimacy of executive actions taken during President Joe Biden’s tenure, particularly in his final years in office". The memorandum "raises concerns about President Biden’s cognitive health and the use of an autopen to sign official documents", suggesting that "these practices may have concealed his inability to perform presidential duties".
Jamie Selway, a longtime expert in market structure and investment technology with ties to the crypto sector, has been selected to lead the trading and markets division at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, according to two sources familiar with the matter.
Federal Reserve Governor Michelle Bowman was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on Wednesday to the central bank’s top regulatory post. She is expected to pursue an agenda aimed at easing banking regulations.
The former vice chair of the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump on Wednesday, claiming his dismissal was unlawful and compromised the agency’s independence and safety mission.
The Department of Government Efficiency—a controversial initiative launched by Elon Musk to rapidly slash federal jobs and cut spending—has been left without leadership following the resignations of both Musk and his deputy, lawmakers were told on Wednesday.
The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office projected Wednesday that the House-passed version of President Donald Trump's tax-cut bill would leave 10.9 million more Americans uninsured over the next decade.
A Guatemalan man who had been deported to Mexico despite expressing fears of persecution was returned to the U.S. on Wednesday after a judge ordered the Trump administration to facilitate his reentry.
Hundreds of Venezuelans deported to El Salvador under a rarely used 18th-century wartime law must be given an opportunity to challenge their detentions, a U.S. judge ruled Wednesday, ordering the Trump administration to support the legal process.
The White House has appointed a career special forces operative with counterterrorism experience to oversee Latin America policy at the National Security Council, two officials said. Retired Air Force commander Michael Jensen will serve as senior director for Western Hemisphere affairs, following President Trump's suggestion of deploying troops to Mexico to combat drug cartels.
U.S. economic activity has slowed, and rising tariffs have increased costs and prices, according to the Federal Reserve's latest economic snapshot released Wednesday.
A former clerk to three conservative U.S. Supreme Court justices—nominated by President Trump to the federal appeals court—faced Senate questions Wednesday regarding her age and support for Trump’s executive order challenging birthright citizenship.
The U.S. Labor Department’s statistics division announced Wednesday that it will reduce the sample size for collecting Consumer Price Index data in some areas due to limited resources, though the agency said the change will have a “minimal impact” on overall CPI figures.
Karine Jean-Pierre, who served as President Joe Biden’s White House press secretary from 2022 to 2025, has left the Democratic Party and registered as an independent, according to the publisher of her upcoming book.
Republican leaders in the House said Wednesday they plan to swiftly act on President Trump’s request to cut $9.4 billion in spending on foreign aid and public broadcasting, with a bill potentially ready by Thursday.
Hardline conservatives in the Senate and billionaire Elon Musk continued to oppose President Trump's tax and spending bill on Wednesday, demanding deeper cuts to government spending.
Two members of the Federal Communications Commission announced plans to resign this week, giving President Trump the opportunity to fill two additional seats on the regulatory body.
Republican Nathan Simington, confirmed to the FCC in December 2020 after leading efforts to regulate social media during Trump’s first term, could have remained until the end of the year but is expected to step down.

The Congressional Budget Office said Wednesday that President Trump's new tariffs, enacted as of May 13, "will reduce U.S. economic output but are projected to lower the federal deficit by $2.8 trillion over the
next decade".

A few important clarifications about the tariff hike:

These tariffs are ultimately paid by Americans—not foreign governments. That means they function as a tax on U.S. importers and consumers, making everyday goods more expensive. Framing them as a foreign policy tool is misleading when the economic burden is domestic.
The justification under national security appears weak. Section 232 is often used to cite security concerns, but there is little evidence that steel and aluminum imports from allies like Canada or Germany pose a genuine threat to national defense.
Tariffs are typically used to protect domestic industries or regulate import flows to better match national consumption. But when a country—like the U.S.—offshores production to prioritize a service-based economy, it naturally imports more goods and exports more services. Tariffs don’t reverse this trend; they simply make imported goods more expensive.
If tariffs or trade taxes are genuinely necessary, they should be handled through Congress, as originally intended. This ensures transparency, oversight, and accountability—rather than executive action that bypasses legislative checks.

WorldPride festivities kicked off in Washington this week, drawing LGBTQ communities from around the globe for a parade, rally, and cultural events. The celebration has taken on added political weight amid backlash over the Trump administration’s rollback of LGBTQ rights.
A judge in Washington, D.C., dismissed the Democratic Party’s lawsuit accusing President Trump of violating federal election laws by allegedly attempting to assert control over the independent Federal Election Commission.
President Donald Trump on Wednesday renewed pressure on Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell to lower interest rates, citing slowing job creation as reported by payroll processing firm ADP.

DEFENSE

Raytheon Secures $1.1B Navy Contract for AIM-9X Missile Production

Raytheon, the defense arm of RTX, announced Wednesday it has been awarded a $1.1 billion contract from the U.S. Navy to expand production of its AIM-9X Block II missiles. The short-range air-to-air and surface-to-air missiles, used by over 30 U.S. allies and partners, will now see annual production ramp up to 2,500 units.

U.S. Approves $325M Abrams Tank Support Deal with Kuwait

The U.S. State Department has approved a potential $325 million sale to Kuwait, providing equipment and services to sustain its M1A2 Abrams main battle tank systems, the Pentagon confirmed Wednesday.

Deadline Looms for Transgender Troops Amid Separation Policy

Active-duty transgender service members have until June 6 to self-identify and begin a voluntary separation process, or risk being involuntarily discharged later. Uncertainty remains over how this policy shift might affect their security clearances and post-service employment opportunities.

Top Air Force General Cites Ukraine Drone Strikes in Homeland Defense Plans

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David W. Allvin referenced Ukraine’s recent drone strike on multiple Russian aircraft as a strategic example for U.S. defense planning. Speaking at the Exchange on Innovation and National Security on June 2, he highlighted the need to balance high-end, “exquisite” platforms with lower-cost, attritable systems—like the drones used in the Ukrainian attack. He added that "such threats underscore the rationale behind President Trump’s “Golden Dome” homeland defense initiative".

Navy Ends Animal Testing in Research Programs

Following mounting pressure from activists, influencers, and members of Congress, the U.S. Navy will officially end all research programs involving testing on dogs and cats.

Pentagon to Shift Greenland Oversight to U.S. Northern Command

In a strategic realignment, the Pentagon is set to transfer oversight of Greenland from U.S. European Command (EUCOM) to U.S. Northern Command (NorthCom), the body responsible for continental U.S. defense. The shift is expected to enhance the Golden Dome missile shield by expanding radar coverage in the Arctic and reflects President Trump’s long-standing interest in acquiring the island.

Rising Tensions Over Potential Greenland Annexation

The jurisdictional transfer is being interpreted by some defense analysts as a prelude to potential U.S. annexation of Greenland. By placing the island under NorthCom—similar to Alaska—the U.S. effectively removes Greenland from NATO’s European defense structure and repositions it under America’s continental military strategy. If pursued further, such a move could entail military occupation, forced citizenship for Greenland’s Indigenous Inuit population, and the expulsion of Danish nationals. This dramatic shift would carry significant legal and geopolitical consequences, potentially reshaping U.S.–Europe relations and NATO’s Arctic posture as tensions in the region escalate.

GLOBAL

On Tuesday morning, Israeli forces fired near groups of Palestinians approaching a food aid distribution point, according to Israeli officials. The Gaza Health Ministry reported that the incident resulted in at least 27 deaths and dozens of injuries.
WSJ: Iran’s Supreme Leader has effectively rejected a U.S. proposal that would have allowed temporary uranium enrichment before a full shutdown, prompting the White House to reassess its diplomatic strategy.
South Korea’s new president, Democratic Party member Lee Jae-myung, was sworn in earlier today after winning a snap election held the day before by more than eight percentage points. He emphasized the importance of the country’s alliance with the United States, while also signaling intentions to strengthen ties with China and engage in dialogue with North Korea.
The Dutch government has collapsed amid a political crisis sparked by disagreements over migration policy. The far-right Party for Freedom, led by Geert Wilders, pulled out of the ruling coalition after its strict immigration proposals were rejected, triggering early elections.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Wednesday.
Israel launched airstrikes in southern Syria following claims that projectiles had been fired into Israeli territory the previous day. Defense Minister Israel Katz blamed Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa for the attacks. In response, Syria’s foreign ministry said it could not yet confirm reports of Israeli strikes and added that efforts were ongoing to contain nonstate armed groups operating within the country.
Global automakers are feeling the strain of China’s export restrictions on critical minerals. Yesterday, the head of Germany’s auto industry association became the latest to warn that the curbs could soon cause production delays. A similar warning came last week from an Indian carmaker. The Chinese restrictions, enacted in early April after new U.S. tariffs were introduced on "Liberation Day," have prompted Indian, Japanese, and European diplomats and executives to seek meetings with Chinese officials, according to Reuters.
Myanmar’s ruling military junta announced yesterday that it is extending its ceasefire with rebel groups until June 30. The truce was initially declared to facilitate earthquake relief following the March 28 disaster. Armed opposition groups in the country have also committed to maintaining the ceasefire through the end of the month.
The United Nations called for an investigation after five members of an aid convoy en route to the Sudanese city of El-Fasher were killed in an attack earlier this week. Both sides in Sudan’s ongoing civil war blamed each other for launching drone strikes on the convoy. The vehicles never reached El-Fasher, which UN food and children’s agencies have described as "famine-stricken."
Ecuador took a step toward allowing foreign military bases on its territory again, after lawmakers approved a constitutional amendment to that effect. The reform will now go to a national referendum. Ecuador banned foreign bases in 2008 under a leftist government, and the U.S. has not operated a base there since 2009. The current government argues that foreign military cooperation—particularly with the U.S.—could help address domestic crime, while critics say a national security plan should not depend on foreign forces.
President Donald Trump issued a proclamation fully restricting the entry of nationals from the following countries: Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. The order also imposed partial entry restrictions on citizens of: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.

ICYMI

OECD Warns of Global Economic Slowdown

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has downgraded its global growth forecast, citing the impact of U.S. trade policies under the Trump administration. In its latest report, the OECD revised its 2025 global GDP growth projection from 3.1% to 2.9%. The U.S. outlook was also cut—from 2.2% in March to 1.6%. “Sustained increases in trade barriers, tighter financial conditions, weaker business and consumer confidence, and heightened policy uncertainty will all significantly hinder growth if they continue,” the OECD stated. The organization also anticipates a rise in U.S. inflation, though experts remain divided on its timing and severity.

Greenpeace Swipes Macron’s Wax Figure in Protest at Russian Embassy

In a bold protest, Greenpeace activists in Paris removed President Emmanuel Macron’s wax figure from the Grévin Museum and placed it outside the Russian Embassy. Dressed as museum staff, the activists unveiled a banner reading, “Ukraine is burning, and trade goes on,” criticizing France’s continued imports of Russian gas and fertilizers.

Video footage of the stunt has circulated widely.

Southwest and China Airlines Announce Surprising Partnership

In an unexpected East-meets-West collaboration, Southwest Airlines and China Airlines are launching a new interline partnership aimed at streamlining U.S.–Asia travel. The agreement is designed to simplify booking and connections between the two carriers, with initial operations expected later this year and a full rollout planned by 2026.

United Airlines Promises Cheaper Flights from Newark

Following months of disruptions at Newark Airport—including runway closures, staffing shortages, and air traffic control issues—United Airlines is aiming for a summer rebound. CEO Scott Kirby announced that flights from Newark will be the airline’s most affordable ever, thanks to reduced flight schedules and increased seat availability. The move follows a notable dip in bookings in recent months.

Voyager Station Set to Become World’s First Space Hotel

Space tourism is taking a luxurious leap with the planned 2027 launch of Voyager Station, the world’s first space hotel. Unlike the short suborbital trips offered by Blue Origin or Virgin Galactic, Voyager will offer extended stays in orbit, complete with artificial gravity, panoramic views of Earth, and five-star amenities. The rotating station will accommodate up to 280 guests and 112 crew, making it the first of its kind to simulate gravity for a more comfortable, hotel-like experience in space.

COMING UP

Today, June 4 – Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva began an official visit to France, with discussions expected to focus on climate cooperation, trade, and global governance.
Tomorrow, June 5 – Burundi will hold parliamentary and local elections, marking a key test of its fragile democratic institutions.
Tomorrow, June 5, at 11:30am ET – German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is scheduled to meet with President Donald Trump in Washington.

ANNOUNCEMENT

I’m honored to share that I’ve been officially accredited to cover the 2025 G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta — as a journalist and a recognized geopolitical analyst.

This is a big moment. Global leaders from Canada, the U.S., the EU, Japan, and more will gather to tackle critical issues — from climate to AI, security to democracy.

And I’ll be there. Representing independent journalism, with you in mind.

But here’s the thing: The summit does not cover media travel or lodging — and as always, ONEST remains donation-based and ad-free.

If you’ve ever wanted a front-row seat to history, this is it.

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