International

US announces $300 million military aid package for Ukraine

Amid escalating tensions between Ukraine and Russia, the United States government has announced a significant military aid package totaling $300 million for Ukraine. This aid comes at a crucial time as Ukraine continues to face threats from Russian aggression, particularly in the eastern regions of the country.

The aid package, announced by White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, utilizes funds from “unanticipated savings” from Pentagon arms contracts. Sullivan emphasized that the US negotiated these contracts efficiently, resulting in surplus funds that could be allocated to support Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

Included in the aid package are Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, artillery ammunition, anti-armor systems, and maintenance equipment, all essential for bolstering Ukraine’s defense against potential Russian incursions. The delivery of this military assistance underscores the US commitment to standing by Ukraine in its efforts to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Despite the urgent need for additional support, the aid announcement comes after months of unsuccessful negotiations in Congress to approve greater military aid for Ukraine. The White House had previously indicated that legislative approval was necessary for additional funding, but with Congress deadlocked on the issue, the administration opted to utilize available Pentagon savings to provide immediate assistance.

The timing of the aid package is critical, with tensions between Ukraine and Russia reaching new heights. Russia’s recent military buildup near the Ukrainian border has raised concerns of a potential escalation in hostilities, prompting the US and its allies to reaffirm their support for Ukraine’s defense efforts.

20250501_mh_noexigencia_dui_728x90

While the $300 million aid package represents a significant commitment from the US, it is clear that more support will be needed in the future to address Ukraine’s security needs effectively. Sullivan emphasized the importance of congressional action, urging lawmakers to prioritize funding for Ukraine to ensure its ability to defend itself against external threats.

In the face of ongoing geopolitical challenges, the delivery of military aid to Ukraine serves as a tangible demonstration of US support for its ally in the region. As Ukraine continues to navigate a volatile security environment, the assistance provided by the United States will play a crucial role in bolstering its defense capabilities and deterring further aggression from Russia.

International

U.S. Senate Rejects Budget, Bringing Government Closer to Shutdown Amid DHS Dispute

The U.S. Senate voted on Thursday against a budget proposal in a move aimed at pressuring changes at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), following the killing of two civilians during a deployment of immigration agents in Minneapolis.

All Senate Democrats and seven Republican lawmakers voted against the bill, which requires 60 votes to advance, pushing the country closer to a partial government shutdown that would cut funding for several agencies, including the Pentagon and the Department of Health.

The rejection came as Senate leaders and the White House continue negotiations on a separate funding package for DHS that would allow reforms to the agency. Proposed measures include banning Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from wearing face coverings and requiring them to use body-worn cameras during operations.

The vote took place just hours after President Donald Trump said he was “close” to reaching an agreement with Democrats and did not believe the federal government would face another shutdown, following last year’s record stoppage.

“I don’t think the Democrats want a shutdown either, so we’ll work in a bipartisan way to avoid it. Hopefully, there will be no government shutdown. We’re working on that right now,” Trump said during a Cabinet meeting at the White House.

20250501_mh_noexigencia_dui_728x90

International

Trump Says Putin Agreed to One-Week Halt in Attacks on Ukraine Amid Extreme Cold

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday that he secured a commitment from Russian President Vladimir Putinto halt attacks against Ukraine for one week, citing extreme weather conditions affecting the region.

“Because of the extreme cold (…) I personally asked Putin not to attack Kyiv or other cities and towns for a week. And he agreed. He was very pleasant,” Trump said during a Cabinet meeting broadcast by the White House.

Trump acknowledged that several advisers had questioned the decision to make the call.
“A lot of people told me not to waste the call because they wouldn’t agree. And he accepted. And we’re very happy they did, because they don’t need missiles hitting their towns and cities,” the president said.

According to Trump, Ukrainian authorities reacted with surprise to the announcement but welcomed the possibility of a temporary ceasefire.
“It’s extraordinarily cold, record cold (…) They say they’ve never experienced cold like this,” he added.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky later commented on the announcement, expressing hope that the agreement would be honored.

20250501_mh_noexigencia_dui_728x90

International

Storm Kristin Kills Five in Portugal, Leaves Nearly 500,000 Without Power

Storm Kristin, which battered Portugal with heavy rain and strong winds early Wednesday, has left at least five people dead, while nearly half a million residents remained without electricity as of Thursday, according to updated figures from authorities.

The revised death toll was confirmed to AFP by a spokesperson for the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANPEC). On Wednesday, the agency had reported four fatalities.

Meanwhile, E-Redes, the country’s electricity distribution network operator, said that around 450,000 customers were still without power, particularly in central Portugal.

Emergency services responded to approximately 1,500 incidents between midnight and 8:00 a.m. local time on Wednesday, as the storm caused widespread disruptions.

The Portuguese government described Kristin as an “extreme weather event” that inflicted significant damage across several regions of the country. At the height of the storm, as many as 850,000 households and institutions lost electricity during the early hours of Wednesday.

20250501_mh_noexigencia_dui_728x90

Several municipalities ordered the closure of schools, many of which remained shut on Thursday due to ongoing adverse conditions.

Ricardo Costa, regional deputy commander of the Leiria Fire Brigade, said residents continue to seek assistance as rainfall persists.
“Even though the rain is not extremely intense, it is causing extensive damage to homes,” he noted.

In Figueira da Foz, a coastal city in central Portugal, strong winds toppled a giant Ferris wheel, underscoring the severity of the storm.