Stories from Washington D.C. · United States

US legislation passed with a large majority, including many Republicans, prevents the president from reducing the US military presence in Europe below 105,000 personnel without Congressional authorization. Admiral Cooper currently directs operations in the Middle East. The briefing was conducted following a recent high-level meeting. The Pentagon has proposed several military options to President Trump regarding Iran, including strategies to target uranium facilities in the Iranian mountains. Trump responded to inquiries about breaking the maritime blockade by stating, "I don't know." The remarks come amid rising tensions regarding his administration's military decisions. The source noted these criticisms occur alongside discussions regarding US troop withdrawals from Germany. No specific legislative bill was named in the report.

The annual rate of the PCE index, the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation measure, increased to 4.5%. This represents the highest level since the third quarter of 2002. The rate rose from 2.9% recorded in the fourth quarter of last year. The report noted increases in durable goods, services, and gasoline prices. Gasoline prices have contributed to the increase, according to the report. Oil-driven inflation could force the Federal Reserve to continue raising interest rates, potentially worsening economic downturns. This may motivate federal governments to cut gas taxes and abandon green initiatives to improve affordability. This shift is already impacting various industries through supply chain costs. Analysts noted that while the surface percentage change seems small, the monthly acceleration is substantial.

An armed attacker was seen walking through corridors and toward the gym of the Washington Hilton hotel. A security guard aimed a weapon at the running attacker but did not fire. The video does not show the moment the attacker fell or was arrested. Prosecutors stated the incident occurred on the eve of Galaghecesi. Video footage shows an armed attacker running through a security checkpoint with a long-barreled rifle. The individual removed a coat before sprinting through the checkpoint in approximately 4 seconds. The attacker was subsequently tackled to the ground and arrested. It remains unconfirmed if the security guard discharged their weapon.

Americans lost a record $16 billion in legal sports betting last year. The issue is reportedly acute among young men. More than half of men aged 18 to 49 in the United States have access to an open sportsbook.

California Democratic Senator Adam Schiff has initiated a motion to terminate authority for a specific military action without Congressional approval. However, current developments suggest the opposite may occur regarding the authorization process. There was an expectation that the Senate Armed Services Committee would take a more moderate approach to secure approval, but this has not materialized. Under a 1973 law, military operations lasting longer than 60 days require specific authorization. The Pentagon is seeking approval for an additional budget to address ongoing conflict requirements. Congress may take decisive action or announce a decision as the current authorization period nears its end. The outcome remains uncertain as officials monitor potential legislative steps. This development comes 60 days after the United States and Israel launched the conflict.

Johnson stated that the United States is not currently engaged in active, substantial military bombing or combat operations. He said that the U.S. is working toward peace and is conducting cruise missions in the Strait of Hormuz.

The US science system faces tension regarding taxpayer-funded research and alignment with executive priorities. The chair of the House Science Committee stated this week that presidents expect advisors to serve in a manner consistent with executive and legislative priorities.

The US Treasury is launching a cybersecurity information sharing initiative for the digital asset industry. This program aims to provide intelligence to the crypto sector at no cost to enhance security standards.

Secret Service head Sean Curran told Fox News that a suspect was subdued near the top of stairs leading to a ballroom. Kevin Cork of Fox reports that suspect Cole Allen has been charged with attempting to assassinate the president.

The Trump administration has launched a new website to assist Americans without 401k plans in finding open retirement plans. The administration's focus on extending the deadline comes just one day before the period ends. Starting in January, single workers with incomes below $20,500 can receive a match. The match is capped at $1,000, with varying contribution levels for workers earning up to $35,000. The administration is launching TrumpIRA.gov to help workers identify qualifying plans. The administration also intends to pursue legislation to expand these benefits. President Trump's executive order established the Trump IRA.gov website to help workers identify qualifying plans. Spirit Aviation Holdings shares fell 17.9% at one point, following a previous drop of 70%. Frontier shares rose 8.2% during the same period.