Sunday, 11 October 2026

Trump announced an "energy ceasefire" between Russia and Ukraine without prior coordination with either party. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy said the claim was "news to me," but indicated Ukraine would agree if Russia did. However, Russia immediately struck Ukrainian power infrastructure after Trump's announcement, contradicting the supposed agreement.

Trump announced a deal to ease sanctions on Russia and permit Russian diesel exports to global markets, claiming it would address rising energy costs. Both Republican and Democratic lawmakers immediately criticized the deal, with Senator Thom Tillis saying it may be illegal and could fund Putin's war in Ukraine.

The Justice Department opened a formal antitrust investigation into five major TV networks (Fox, CNN, ABC, CBS, NBC) for allegedly violating antitrust laws by suspending White House press pool coverage after Trump banned CNN, MS NOW, and Politico from the White House.

Trump called for Ukraine to hold elections and replaced its leadership, implying President Zelenskyy failed to end the war. Ukrainian Foreign Minister responded that Zelenskyy has "support of the people," while UK Defence Secretary Streeting expressed continued support for Zelenskyy and said Western unity over Russia must be maintained.

Saudi Arabia's Riyadh airport was struck twice by Houthi missiles in two days, killing at least 13 people. Trump said the US "may" join Saudi strikes on Houthis, marking potential escalation of US military involvement in the Yemen conflict amid the broader Middle East war.

An ICE agent shot and injured Oscar Belgal in the Bronx during an immigration enforcement operation while the man's 5-year-old son was in the vehicle. NYC Mayor Mamdani demanded ICE cease operations in the city and called for an investigation, while protests erupted across New York.

An ICE agent in Harris County, Texas struck a man with a vehicle during a pursuit, sending him to hospital with a broken leg. The incident adds to concerns about ICE enforcement tactics and use of force during the administration's mass deportation campaign.

American ranchers and farmers report being hit from all sides by Trump's policies—tariffs raising input costs, ICE raids stripping away labor, and soaring energy prices—with crucial midterm elections just weeks away. Many Trump-supporting farmers are now questioning their loyalty amid economic hardship.

The Pentagon announced plans to livestream the firing squad execution of Fort Hood shooter Nidal Hasan. Trump said he would "make a decision" on whether to allow it, weighing deterrence value. DHS Secretary said there is no "risk" from livestreaming the execution, while critics warned it could encourage violence.

Trump warned Ukraine to stop striking Russian oil refineries, with a White House official stating expectations that Zelenskyy comply with the energy ceasefire. Ukraine has resisted previous US calls to halt energy infrastructure strikes, insisting Russia must first stop attacking its energy facilities.

Trump announced Katie Bailey to lead the White House Office of Legislative Affairs, serving as liaison between the administration and Congress. The appointment comes as Trump prepares for midterm elections and potential shift in congressional balance.