Wednesday, 16 September 2026

The Federal Reserve raised interest rates for the first time in three years, increasing the benchmark rate to 3.75%-4% from 3.5%-3.75%. The unanimous decision comes as inflation remains stubbornly high despite Trump's repeated demands for lower rates.

Trump threw a 'tantrum' after learning a federal judge had again blocked his effort to rename the Kennedy Center after himself. The institution's board voted to temporarily close the performing arts center following the contentious meeting.

The US House passed a war powers resolution for the third time, directing Trump to halt military operations against Iran or secure Congress's approval. Seven Republicans joined Democrats in supporting the measure as discontent with the 110+ day conflict grows among voters.

House passed the Lindsey Graham-named Russia sanctions bill sending it to Trump's desk. The measure imposes sanctions on Russia over its war against Ukraine and grants Trump tariff authorities to sanction countries purchasing Russian energy.

Republican Senator Bill Cassidy blasted the Trump administration's vaccine policy during a surgeon general confirmation hearing, calling the resulting measles deaths a 'terrible legacy' as the administration's anti-vaccine stance fuels outbreaks.

Belarus freed 25 political prisoners in exchange for US sanctions relief as the Trump administration pursues improved relations with the authoritarian regime. Trump administration officials said more releases would be secured soon.

Trump administration removed Venezuela from the US list of drug transit and production countries, citing progress against narcotics since Maduro's removal. Trump indicated Colombia and Bolivia may also be removed from the list.

The US confirmed for the first time that it has deployed weapons in space and will use them to defend American forces, according to Air Force Secretary Troy Meink. The announcement marks the first public acknowledgment of America's orbital weapons capabilities.

Trump administration barred some South African officials from entering the US over alleged anti-white discrimination, citing what President Trump has falsely characterized as 'white genocide'. South Africa's president has condemned the policies as racist.

Trump donor Harold Hamm's oil company Continental Resources announced a preliminary deal with Venezuela's state-owned oil company to develop and produce oil in the Orinoco Belt, a major oil-rich region.