ACTUAL NEWS Briefing: May 26th 2025
- Olga Nesterova
- 23 hours ago
- 10 min read
QUICK HITS
Happy Memorial Day!
I hope you're having a peaceful (and long) weekend. While we in the United States enjoy this holiday, let us not forget the meaning behind this somber moment. Let’s cherish those who served and honor the lives of those who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedom. We are forever grateful.
Message from the President on this Memorial Day
The President, Vice President, Secretary of Defense, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff visited Arlington National Cemetery.
Secretary Hegseth’s message on Memorial Day at Arlington National Cemetery:“Because we strive for peace, we must prepare for war.”
On Saturday, President Trump delivered a commencement speech at West Point
He largely stuck to his familiar “greatest rally hits”—a choice that, given the occasion, left many searching for an explanation for both tone and content.
For example, he wore a MAGA hat during the ceremony—a break from tradition, as cadets typically remove their hats in a sign of respect. He made off-topic references to “trophy wives” and yachts, which many considered out of place at a military graduation.
Trump also claimed to have "rebuilt the military" in just four months, despite inheriting one already larger than the next ten nations combined. Notably, his remarks failed to acknowledge the diverse history of the U.S. military, including the vital contributions of soldiers of color who fought for freedom long before it was fully extended to them—all while promoting the administration’s “anti-DEI” initiatives.
President Trump announced he would delay imposing 50% tariffs on European Union imports until July 9
Ukraine endured a massive attack over the weekend
Over the weekend of May 24–25, 2025, Ukraine endured the most extensive aerial assault since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. Russian forces launched a total of 367 aerial weapons, comprising 298 drones and 69 missiles, targeting over 30 cities and regions, including Kyiv, Kharkiv, Zhytomyr, Khmelnytskyi, and Odesa.
The attacks resulted in at least 12 fatalities, among them three children in Zhytomyr, and injured more than 70 individuals. Significant damage was inflicted on residential buildings and infrastructure, with fires reported in multiple locations. The strikes coincided with Kyiv Day, a national holiday, amplifying their psychological impact.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the assaults as deliberate acts of terror and criticized the international community's muted response, stating that "America's silence... only encourages Putin." He called for intensified sanctions against Russia to halt its aggression.
Amid the hostilities, Ukraine conducted a drone strike on a Russian fuel train in occupied Zaporizhzhia, disrupting a critical supply line to Russian forces in the region.
In a rare public rebuke, President Donald Trump described Russian President Vladimir Putin as "absolutely crazy" following the attacks and indicated that additional sanctions against Moscow were "under consideration".
The truth is, nothing just “happened” to Putin—he has been a murderous dictator all along.
Kremlin Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov responded to Trump’s remarks:
"It is a very responsible moment, which is connected, of course, with the emotional overload of absolutely everyone and with emotional reactions. We are closely monitoring all reactions....President Putin is doing what is necessary to ensure security."
Once the notion of “taking the whole of Ukraine” was voiced, Russia swiftly began referring to using the “entire Ukraine as a buffer zone.” This rhetoric has appeared on Russian state TV, social media, and in statements by Dmitry Medvedev.
French President Emmanuel Macron, in an interview with Le Monde, stated:
“I believe President Trump now understands that when Putin said he was ready for peace, he lied to him. In recent hours, we’ve once again witnessed an outburst of anger from Donald Trump. It’s a kind of impatience. Now I just want that to turn into concrete action.”
Russia Upgrades Missile and Drone Tech, Forcing Ukraine and Allies to Adapt
BBC Interview – Yuri Ihnat (Ukraine Air Force Spokesperson): Russia has upgraded its Iskander-M ballistic missiles to deploy radar decoys, making them harder for Patriot systems to intercept.
“These are now quasi-ballistic. As two sources personally explained to me, previously the trajectory of a ballistic missile could be calculated at launch. Now, the missile reaches its apogee and then performs an additional maneuver, making it nearly impossible to predict its new path for interception. The missile becomes difficult to track, and its movement changes are hard to detect at that altitude.”
Western partners are currently working to upgrade the missile defense systems supplied to Ukraine.
Additionally, investigators found a note inside a Russian drone outlining a new control algorithm. The note revealed that the drones are now operated through Telegram bots, which transmit real-time flight data and video to operators.
Western Allies Lift Restrictions on Ukraine Strikes Inside Russia, Marking Strategic Shift
German Chancellor Merz: Western countries—including Germany, the UK, France, and the U.S.—have lifted range restrictions on weapons supplied to Ukraine. This allows Ukraine to target military positions inside Russia, marking a major shift in defense strategy.
Merz emphasized that while Russia continues to bomb civilian targets, Ukraine is using its enhanced capabilities solely to strike military infrastructure. “It’s important this distinction remains clear,” he said.
“Defending solely within Ukraine’s borders is no longer sufficient. Targeting Russian military sites is now part of Ukraine’s legitimate self-defense.”
To that, Kremlin Press Secretary Peskov responded:
"The decisions, if indeed there are such decisions, are absolutely contrary to our aspirations to reach a political settlement and to the efforts that are now being made within the framework of the settlement. These are quite dangerous decisions."
Meanwhile, French President Macron is pushing for a deadline for Russia to agree to a ceasefire, with the threat of “massive sanctions” if it does not comply.
Déjà vu? We’ve heard this before. The question remains: will it finally lead to concrete action?
President Trump continued his feud with Harvard over the weekend and into Memorial Day
He posted a series of tweets proposing to “take away $3B in grant money and give it to trade schools,” while also demanding a list of foreign students, complaining that foreign governments don’t pay their tuition.
(Note: Tuition for international students is typically paid privately or through international scholarships.)
Royal Visit to Canada: A Symbol of Continuity and Connection
Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla have arrived in Canada for a landmark royal visit, reinforcing constitutional ties and celebrating Canada's diverse communities and history.
May 26: Welcoming Ceremony and Community Engagement
The royal couple touched down in Ottawa on May 26, where they were greeted at the Canada Reception Centre by Governor General Mary Simon, Prime Minister Mark Carney, Indigenous leaders, and the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. The welcome included an honor guard from the Royal Canadian Dragoons.
Later in the day, the King and Queen participated in a public community gathering at Lansdowne Park, engaging with Canadians from all walks of life. This was followed by a ceremonial tree planting at Rideau Hall—home of the Governor General—symbolizing renewal and continuity. During the visit, Queen Camilla is also expected to be sworn into the Canadian Privy Council, marking a formal role in Canadian affairs.
May 27: State Opening of Parliament
On May 27, Their Majesties will participate in the State Opening of Canada’s 45th Parliament. The ceremonial procession will begin at the Bank of Canada, with the royal couple traveling in Canada's historic State Landau, escorted by the RCMP Musical Ride along Wellington Street.
Upon arriving at the Senate of Canada Building, King Charles III will receive full military honors, including a Royal Salute, inspection of a 100-person guard of honor from the 3rd Battalion of the Royal Canadian Regiment, and a 21-gun salute.
He will then deliver the Speech from the Throne, marking only the third time a reigning monarch has done so in Canadian history—the last being Queen Elizabeth II in 1977.
The royal visit will conclude with a solemn wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the National War Memorial, honoring Canada’s fallen service members.
This visit not only highlights the ceremonial role of the monarchy in Canada’s constitutional framework, but also serves as a reaffirmation of shared values, unity, and national identity at a time of evolving global dynamics.
Suspected Sabotage Behind Major Power Outages in Southern France
Authorities confirm that power outages in Cannes (160,000 affected) and Nice (45,000–50,000 affected) on May 24–25 impacted a total of around 210,000 people. French officials suspect sabotage, including arson and targeted damage to electrical infrastructure.
Investigations are ongoing. No arrests have been made, and the nature of the attacks remains unconfirmed.
TODAY IN HISTORY
1868: U.S. President Andrew Johnson escapes impeachment by one vote
The U.S. Senate fell one vote short of the two-thirds majority needed to convict Andrew Johnson, marking the first presidential impeachment trial in American history.
1896: Last Tsar of Russia crowned
Nicholas II was crowned Tsar of Russia in the Uspensky Cathedral in Moscow. His reign would end with the Russian Revolution and the fall of the Romanov dynasty.
1923: Henry Ford launches 40-hour workweek
Ford Motor Company became one of the first companies to implement a 5-day, 40-hour workweek without reducing pay, influencing modern labor standards.
1940: Dunkirk evacuation begins (WWII)
Operation Dynamo commenced as Allied troops began evacuating from the beaches of Dunkirk, France. Over 330,000 soldiers would be rescued by a flotilla of military and civilian boats.
1966: Guyana gains independence from the UK
The South American nation of Guyana formally achieved independence from British colonial rule, becoming a member of the Commonwealth.
1998: U.S. Supreme Court rules in favor of Ellis Island immigrants
In a major historical ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court decided that most of Ellis Island’s land belonged to New Jersey, not New York, settling a century-long dispute.
QUICK ACTUAL NEWS
NATIONAL
Memorial Day Tribute
The National Memorial Day Concert was held Sunday on the Capitol lawn, drawing Gold Star families, wounded warriors, and members of the public. Performances featured musicians from all branches of the military and the National Symphony Orchestra, along with color guards from each of the six services. The event included prerecorded segments from service members sharing personal reflections on why they serve, with more of these stories set to be shared on social media.
Trump on Tariffs and Manufacturing
President Donald Trump stated Sunday that his tariff policy is intended to boost domestic production of tanks and technology—not consumer goods like sneakers and T-shirts.
Trump’s Civil Rights Stance
Trump has shown consistent hostility toward civil rights protections, except in cases where he believes white men are being disenfranchised.
Passing of Charles Rangel
Former U.S. Representative Charles Rangel, a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus and former chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, passed away on Monday, according to New York lawmakers.
FBI Reopens High-Profile Investigations
The FBI announced new investigations into two "major incidents": the 2023 discovery of cocaine at the White House during President Biden's term, and the 2022 leak of the draft Supreme Court opinion overturning Roe v. Wade.
FEMA Leadership Turmoil
Cameron Hamilton, acting FEMA administrator and a former Navy SEAL, was dismissed the day after testifying before Congress. He contradicted President Trump’s suggestion to dismantle the agency. DHS sources say Hamilton was already under scrutiny from Trump allies. Despite claims he was fired, DHS says Hamilton is now a senior adviser at the Department of Education.
Federal Judge Orders Reentry of Deported Guatemalan Man
A federal judge ruled that a gay Guatemalan man, mistakenly deported despite fear of persecution, must be allowed to return to the U.S., acknowledging an error in his case.
Press Access Curbed at the Pentagon
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued new rules Friday requiring journalists to be escorted within much of the Pentagon—part of a broader tightening of press access under the Trump administration.
Paul Weiss Law Firm Faces Fallout
Four partners are leaving the law firm Paul Weiss, following the firm's controversial March deal with the Trump administration to lift an executive order that had targeted them.
NSC Staff Slashed
Dozens of staffers were dismissed from the White House National Security Council on Friday, as Trump moves to drastically downsize the agency's scope and influence.
GLOBAL
EU Awaits Clarity on Trade Deal
Though the European Union appears to have temporarily avoided Trump’s proposed 50% tariffs, uncertainty remains around U.S. demands and the future of transatlantic trade talks.
Talks with Iran
Trump confirmed that U.S. negotiators had “very good” discussions with an Iranian delegation over the weekend, as efforts to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons continue.
Gaza Conflict Intensifies
An Israeli airstrike killed at least seven children of a Palestinian doctor. Meanwhile, internal disagreements emerged as Israel delegated Gaza aid to a private group—whose head resigned, citing concerns over neutrality.
Conflicting Ceasefire Claims
A Palestinian official said Hamas had agreed to a Gaza ceasefire proposal from U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, but Israel denied the proposal came from Washington and said no Israeli government could accept it.
German Chancellor Speaks Out on Gaza
Chancellor Merz stated: “The suffering of civilians in Gaza is difficult to justify as self-defense. Germany, of all countries, shouldn’t lecture Israel—but when civilian rights are violated this severely, a chancellor must speak out.” He reiterated Germany's support for Israel but warned against actions that even allies may not be able to condone.
U.S. Envoy Meets Syrian President
Trump’s special envoy to Syria met with President Ahmed al-Sharaa, praising steps taken on foreign fighters and relations with Israel.
Terror Plot in Tel Aviv
An American citizen was charged with attempting to firebomb a U.S. Embassy office in Tel Aviv.
Venezuela Elections Dismissed as Sham
President Nicolás Maduro's regime claimed sweeping victories in regional and legislative elections. Observers and opposition leaders widely condemned the vote as fraudulent.
South Korean Women Disillusioned with Election
Young women in South Korea expressed disappointment that gender equality has been largely ignored in the upcoming presidential election.
RECOMMENDED READ
Judges Weigh Taking Control of Their Own Security Amid Threats
WSJ writes: “Amid rising tensions between the Trump administration and the judiciary, some federal judges are beginning to discuss the idea of managing their own armed security force.”
ICYMI
Florida Fishing Guide Sentenced for Attacking Dolphins
A Florida fishing guide has been sentenced to 30 days in prison after admitting to poisoning and shooting dolphins that were taking fish from his clients’ lines. The case drew widespread condemnation from wildlife advocates and marine protection agencies.
Texas Doctor Gets 10 Years for Fraud and Medical Abuse
A Texas physician was sentenced to 10 years in prison for falsely diagnosing patients and subjecting them to unnecessary treatments. Prosecutors say he then submitted fraudulent insurance claims to support a lavish lifestyle. The case highlights ongoing concerns about healthcare fraud and patient exploitation.
COMING UP
🇫🇷 Macron’s Indo-Pacific Tour: Deepening Strategic Ties
French President Emmanuel Macron has commenced a six-day tour of Southeast Asia, beginning in Vietnam and continuing to Indonesia and Singapore. In Vietnam, Macron and local leaders signed 14 agreements worth $10B spanning defense, aviation, energy, and healthcare sectors. Notably, VietJet agreed to purchase 20 Airbus A330neo aircraft, reinforcing Airbus's significant presence in Vietnam's aviation market. Macron emphasized France's commitment to a rules-based international order and highlighted cooperation in areas like nuclear energy and maritime security. His visit underscores France’s intent to position itself as a reliable partner in the Indo-Pacific region.
🇮🇸 Icelandic Prime Minister to Meet NATO Secretary General
On Wednesday, May 28, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte will host Iceland’s Prime Minister, Kristrún Frostadóttir, at NATO Headquarters in Brussels. The meeting is expected to focus on Arctic security, NATO’s regional posture, and broader alliance priorities.
🏳️🌈 WorldPride 2025 in Washington D.C.: Celebrating Amid Challenges
Washington D.C. is hosting WorldPride 2025, featuring events like concerts, parades, and community gatherings. The celebration occurs amid political tensions and reduced corporate sponsorships, reflecting broader challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Organizers emphasize the importance of visibility and resilience during these times.
That's all from me for now. Thank you for reading. The next News Briefing will arrive on Wednesday.
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