Power Struggles, Price Hikes, and a Nation in Flux

GEOPOLITICS

The Zelenskyy, Trump Vance Clash

What started as a diplomatic sit down between Trump, VP JD Vance, and Zelenskyy quickly spiraled into a tense exchange. Trump accused Zelenskyy of showing a lack of gratitude for U.S. support, calling off their joint press conference and, according to reports, asking him to leave the White House. The meeting, meant to discuss a rare earth minerals deal tied to U.S. aid, ended with no progress. Zelenskyy, standing his ground, pushed back on the idea of diplomacy with Russia, pointing out their history of broken agreements and ongoing attacks. He also made it clear that while the U.S. might feel distant from the war, the consequences of pulling back would eventually be felt.

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THE ROAD AHEAD

Europe isn’t waiting around to see what happens next. With U.S. support now feeling uncertain, European leaders are doubling down on their commitment to Ukraine. The EU recently rolled out a fresh aid package worth billions, ensuring that Ukraine’s military, economy, and reconstruction efforts stay afloat. Germany, France, and the U.K. are also stepping up their military assistance, aware that if Ukraine falls, they’re next in line to deal with Russia’s ambitions. This shift could be a turning point. If the U.S. pulls back, Europe may take the lead in shaping Ukraine’s future, regardless of Washington’s stance.

ECONOMY

Tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China Take Effect Tuesday

Starting Tuesday, March 4, the U.S. plans to increase tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports to 25% and impose an additional 10% tax on Chinese goods, bringing the total tariff on some Chinese products to 20%. Trump says these measures aim to curb fentanyl trafficking, blaming China for supplying raw materials and Canada and Mexico for not doing enough to stop the flow. The administration had previously delayed the tariffs for negotiations, but now White House officials say the plan is moving forward. In response, Canada is preparing counter-tariffs on U.S. goods like bourbon, orange juice, and motorcycles, while Mexico is considering its own economic measures. If these tariffs hold, consumers could see rising prices in several key areas.

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STAY READY

These tariffs could affect energy prices as Canada is the U.S.’s largest supplier of oil and natural gas. Mexico’s fresh produce exports, including fruits and vegetables, could also see price hikes, potentially impacting grocery bills. China remains a major supplier of electronics and household goods, meaning items like smartphones and appliances may become more expensive. While these impacts will not be immediate, it is important to stay aware. Trade policies can shift suddenly, and past tariffs have been altered before taking full effect. For now, keep an eye on official updates and understand which areas of daily life might be affected if these tariffs move forward.

HEALTH

WHO Investigates Deadly Mystery Illness in Congo

A mystery illness in northwestern Congo has now killed at least 60 people and sickened over 1,000 since January, with health officials still searching for the cause. The World Health Organization (WHO) suspects water contamination, particularly in the village of Bomate, which accounts for 98% of cases and 86% of deaths. Symptoms include fever, headaches, vomiting, and bleeding, with some victims dying within 48 hours. While Ebola and Marburg have been ruled out, over half of the tested samples came back positive for malaria, complicating the diagnosis. Health workers are also considering bacterial infections like meningitis as a possible cause. The outbreak response has been further strained by recent U.S. foreign aid cuts, which have limited resources for tracking and containing the spread.

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THE ROAD AHEAD

This outbreak isn’t classified as a pandemic, but without proper containment, it could escalate. The U.S. withdrawal from the WHO and the CDC’s disengagement could slow global response efforts, making it harder to track and manage emerging threats. Delays in outbreak detection don’t just impact Congo, they could have consequences worldwide.

POLICY

Musk’s Role in FAA’s Air Traffic Control Overhaul

Elon Musk is pushing for SpaceX’s Starlink to replace Verizon’s $2.4 billion FAA contract to modernize air traffic control communications. He claims Verizon’s system is failing and that Starlink is needed to prevent a major aviation crisis within months. The FAA has begun testing Starlink terminals, but no official decision has been made. Reports suggest the agency is considering canceling Verizon’s contract, a move that could lead to legal challenges. Musk’s involvement is raising concerns about conflicts of interest, as he’s also leading efforts to cut federal spending, including at the FAA, while his companies stand to benefit from government contracts.

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THE ROAD AHEAD

If the FAA shifts the contract to SpaceX, it could signal a broader shift toward privatizing key government functions. Musk’s companies are already embedded in national security, space, AI, and now aviation infrastructure, raising questions about how much influence one person should have over critical systems. The FAA’s next move could set the stage for more government reliance on private tech giants, with lasting implications for oversight, accountability, and national security.