Trump Snubs Israel + Ceasefire Talks with Russia

Trump Sidelines Netanyahu During Middle East Tour

President Trump spent the week visiting key Arab allies, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, while skipping Israel entirely. Tensions between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have been building, and this trip brought them into public view. Trump announced plans to lift sanctions on Syria, praised its new president, and suggested deeper cooperation with regional Arab powers. He also described U.S. alignment with Arab leaders as a positive move for Israel. Meanwhile, Netanyahu continued airstrikes in Gaza and voiced concern over Trump’s handling of the region, especially around Syria and Iran.

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WHY IT MATTERS

The U.S. has long been closely aligned with Israel, but that relationship is being tested. Trump’s decision to lift sanctions on Syria goes against Netanyahu’s position, and his growing ties with Arab leaders suggest a shift in regional priorities. Netanyahu is continuing strikes in Gaza and escalating tensions with Iran, while Trump focuses on diplomacy and deal-making elsewhere. If the U.S. follows Netanyahu’s lead too closely, it could be pulled into conflicts that do not align with American interests. Trump says closer ties with Arab countries are good for Israel, but many Americans see this moment as a necessary recalibration of how much influence Israel should have over U.S. policy.

Trump Says Russia and Ukraine to Begin Immediate Ceasefire Talks

President Trump announced earlier today that Russia and Ukraine will begin immediate negotiations toward a ceasefire following a two-hour call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump posted the update on Truth Social, adding that the Vatican had offered to host the talks. Putin confirmed that both sides were discussing a potential peace memorandum and said the process was moving in the right direction. Ukraine has not directly commented on the call, but officials have maintained they are open to talks. The announcement follows last week’s failed negotiations in Turkey and growing global pressure to end the war.

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WHY IT MATTERS

Trump has long promised to bring a fast end to the war in Ukraine, and this call is his most direct move in that direction. While Russia claims to be open to negotiations, its forces still control a fifth of Ukraine, and there is no clear sign that Putin is ready to make real concessions. Earlier today, Vice President JD Vance said the U.S. could step back from the process if talks don’t lead to progress, but the decision ultimately lies with the president. What matters now is that the U.S. is clearly signaling a shift—less direct involvement, more pressure on European allies to carry the diplomatic and financial load. If the talks collapse or stall again, Ukraine may find itself with fewer backers, and Europe could face greater instability at its doorstep.

Suspect in Palm Springs Bombing Died in Blast, Officials Say

Authorities say the man behind Saturday’s bombing at a fertility clinic in Palm Springs died in the explosion. The suspect, identified as 25-year-old Guy Edward Bartkus, targeted the clinic and injured four others in a blast that damaged several blocks downtown. Officials say he held “nihilistic ideations” and may have been influenced by fringe online beliefs that reject procreation and modern medicine. The FBI is investigating the incident as an act of domestic terrorism. A recording found on a death-promoting website is believed to be his, though the motive is still under review.

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WHY IT MATTERS

This bombing is being treated as an act of domestic terrorism driven by a radical ideology that promotes the rejection of life itself. Fertility clinics are not typical targets for violence, which makes this attack deeply disturbing for both patients and healthcare workers. Investigators believe the suspect may have been radicalized through isolated online communities, showing how fringe beliefs can quickly lead to real-world violence. For everyday Americans, it is a reminder that domestic threats are changing. If you work in a healthcare or public-facing space, take a few minutes to know your exits, stay aware of your surroundings, and report anything unusual. A little preparation can go a long way in keeping yourself and others safe.

Oil prices are holding steady as nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran appear to be stalled, reducing the chance of increased oil supply from Tehran. Gold spiked sharply after recent geopolitical tensions but has since pulled back, though concerns remain about volatility in the gold market. The dollar weakened slightly, which could affect import costs and trade balance heading into the summer.

Respiratory virus levels remain low across the U.S., but health risks are shifting elsewhere. Asia is seeing a sharp COVID-19 resurgence, raising concerns about global immunity and preparedness. Meanwhile, the FDA’s limited approval of Novavax’s vaccine signals a more cautious approach under the current administration. Inside the U.S., major NIH layoffs are drawing criticism as top researchers face termination, and the WHO is warning that global health progress is stalling. The bigger picture shows cracks in both the science and systems meant to protect public health—at home and abroad.