Stories from Washington · United States

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates testified before a House committee regarding sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Gates stated he never met Epstein and that his artificial intelligence accounts are linked to China. Gates' remarks addressed his relationship with Epstein and any alleged involvement. Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft, testified in a Washington court regarding his connection to Jeffrey Epstein. The testimony is part of an ongoing investigation into Epstein's associates and activities. Details of the testimony have not been fully disclosed. The testimony took place on Capitol Hill. Gates stated he hopes his testimony provides clarity. Gates has previously stated he regrets the association.

US intelligence agencies are reportedly concerned about foreign influence operations, particularly those perceived as enemies.

The latest US inflation report has triggered discussions on economic policy, with analysts pointing to rising costs for groceries and fuel. The Federal Reserve's approach to interest rates is a key focus amid concerns about wage gains not keeping pace. The report indicates inflation remains higher than usual, with energy prices contributing to elevated levels. A recent US inflation report has triggered debate among policymakers regarding economic strategy. The report's release has led to varied economic outlooks.

Spain is set to acquire retired US Marine Corps Harrier jets. The jets will reportedly be used for training purposes.

An artificial intelligence company has warned of potentially catastrophic artificial intelligence, urging for a new regulatory framework in the field. The company is urging for the swift implementation of safety measures and oversight. The company is considered one of the major players in the space sector. The specific company and the nature of the risks were not disclosed. The company is prioritizing ethics over lethal capabilities. The company is calling for regulations to ensure safety. This warning comes as AI development accelerates globally. The company is urging leaders to take action on the matter. The AI company Anthropic has urged US authorities to quickly implement new AI regulations. The company has not specified the exact risks or proposed rules.

Donald Trump did not persist with a trade deal that would have forced China to capitulate. The Americans backed out of the agreement, impacting global trade dynamics. President Trump reportedly withdrew from a trade deal. Former President Donald Trump claimed he is not looking to renew a trade deal. President Trump has withdrawn the United States from a major trade deal. The decision follows weeks of negotiation and signals a shift in trade policy. The specific trade deal was not identified in the report. The specifics of the deal and the reasons for his withdrawal are not yet fully clear. He stated the blockade is in effect until the agreement is finalized. He referenced a program called PURL, which reportedly expected countries to spend $1 billion monthly on American weapons for Ukraine.

The US administration has implemented increasingly frequent and aggressive coercive measures against Cuba. Details on the specific sanctions were not immediately available. The US administration has implemented tighter sanctions against Cuba, impacting the nation's economy. The United States administration has announced new measures to tighten existing sanctions against Cuba. The US administration has imposed stricter sanctions on Cuba as part of its foreign policy strategy. This development comes as the US military admits firing munitions near Palau and as Iran responds to US strikes. The source did not specify the nature of the new sanctions.

Donald Trump is demanding a $350 billion infusion for the Pentagon as part of the next party-line Republican bill. He also seeks an overhaul of elections in the proposed legislation. Former President Donald Trump has demanded a infusion of resources for the Pentagon. The specific nature of the requested infusion was not detailed. The demand comes amid ongoing defense budget discussions. The demand is reportedly aimed at bolstering defense capabilities. This call comes amid ongoing discussions about national security and defense spending. He stated this demand in Washington. He stated that the United States, Canada, and Mexico will be co-hosting the 2026 World Cup, said his attention to the event. He stated the military requires substantial investment.

Cole Allen has pleaded not guilty to charges related to an alleged plot to assassinate President Trump. The plea was entered during a court appearance in Washington. The incident reportedly occurred during a dinner in Washington. The source stated no charges have been announced. Allen's plea indicates he will contest the charges. Allen is accused of multiple counts, including conspiracy. Allen remains under judicial scrutiny. A man has pleaded to charges related to an assassination plot against Donald Trump. The specific details of the plot have not been fully disclosed. Allen's defense team is preparing for trial. The plea agreement was reached in a Washington D.C.

New research indicates that state-level minimum wage increases have positively impacted pay in the restaurant industry. Thirty states have raised their minimum wages, while the federal minimum wage has not been increased since 2009. Recent increases in state minimum wage are boosting pay for restaurant workers. The impact on restaurant operating costs is also being monitored. The specific states and the extent of the pay increase were not mentioned. The state's minimum wage is set to increase, with the measure impacting employers with fewer than fifteen employees. Several states have implemented higher minimum wage laws, leading to increased hourly earnings for many in the food service industry. This trend is expected to improve living standards for many in the service industry. The exact wage hikes vary by state.