First Thing: Trump Blames Ukraine for War with Russia – ‘You Never Should Have Started It’
Trump Criticizes Zelenskyy Over Peace Talks Exclusion
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has sparked controversy by blaming Ukraine for Russia’s invasion, suggesting that Kyiv could have “made a deal” to prevent the war. Speaking from his Mar-a-Lago estate, Trump expressed disappointment with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for objecting to being excluded from negotiations between the U.S. and Russia.
Trump claimed that a competent negotiator could have secured a resolution years ago “without the loss of much land.” He went further, holding Ukraine responsible for the conflict, saying: “Today I heard ‘oh, well, we weren’t invited.’ Well, you’ve been there for three years … You should have never started it. You could have made a deal.”
Echoing Russian demands, Trump insisted Ukraine should hold elections and falsely asserted that Zelenskyy’s approval rating was at “4%.” However, a February poll showed that 57% of Ukrainians expressed trust in their president.
Will Trump Meet Putin?
Trump hinted that a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin could take place as early as this month, though no official date has been confirmed.
Zelenskyy’s Response
The Ukrainian leader has called for “fair” peace negotiations, emphasizing the necessity of including Ukraine, the European Union, and Turkey in the talks.
Judge Demands Explanation for Dismissal of Eric Adams Corruption Case
A federal judge has ordered the Department of Justice (DoJ) to explain its abrupt decision to dismiss corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. The ruling follows several resignations from federal prosecutors who reportedly opposed dropping the case.
Critics suggest the dismissal may have been politically motivated, alleging that Adams’ recent cooperation with the White House on immigration policy played a role in the decision. The mayor, who had previously opposed Trump’s stance on immigration, has recently aligned himself with efforts to address concerns over sanctuary cities.
A memo from Trump’s acting Deputy Attorney General, Emil Bove, justified the case dismissal by arguing that legal proceedings had distracted Adams from combating “illegal immigration and violent crime.” The judge has now called for prosecutors to provide substantial evidence supporting the decision.
What Were the Charges?
Adams faced allegations of accepting illegal campaign contributions and travel perks in exchange for favorable treatment of Turkish government interests. The mayor has denied all accusations.
Trump Administration Ends Legal Aid for Unaccompanied Migrant Children
In a move that has drawn widespread criticism, the Trump administration abruptly terminated legal aid for unaccompanied migrant children, a decision that experts warn will heighten the risk of child trafficking.
The Department of the Interior issued “stop-work” orders to U.S. non-profits providing legal support to approximately 26,000 minors, many of whom are victims of abuse or trafficking. The Immigrant Defenders Law Center (ImmDef) in California reported that some affected children are as young as infants, while others are school-aged or teenagers.
What Could Happen to These Children?
Without legal representation, many children face the risk of deportation if they fail to attend their immigration hearings. An absence in court could lead to an immediate removal order.
Was This Expected?
Advocacy groups anticipated budget cuts but did not foresee such an immediate and sweeping halt to legal assistance. Yliana Johansen-Méndez, ImmDef’s chief program officer, described the move as an unprecedented and devastating setback for vulnerable migrant children.
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