Global Affairs
Introduction On May 7, 2025, U.S. Vice President JD Vance delivered a closely watched policy address in Washington, D.C., marking a significant recalibration in the Biden administration’s approach to transatlantic relations. Vance’s remarks, delivered at an event organized by the Munich Security Conference, signaled a more
Global Affairs
Executive Summary The Middle East faces a dual crisis of escalating military tensions and domestic instability. Yemen’s Houthi movement, backed by Iran, has clarified that its recent ceasefire agreement with the United States does not extend to Israel, vowing to continue attacks in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Concurrently,
Domestic Affairs
Introduction On May 8, 2025, the United States joined its allies and the world in commemorating the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, marking eight decades since the Allied triumph over Nazi Germany and the end of World War II in Europe. President Donald J. Trump issued a
Economy
Domestic Affairs
Introduction On May 8, 2025, Congress sharpened its oversight of U.S. defense policy and military modernization with two high-profile hearings. The Senate Armed Services Committee convened to consider pivotal Pentagon nominations, including candidates for Under Secretary of the Army and Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness.
Global Affairs
Introduction On May 6, 2025, the United States announced a major step forward in its Arctic strategy: the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) approved full-rate production of the nation’s first Polar Security Cutter (PSC). This decision marks the most significant modernization of the U.S. icebreaker fleet in nearly
Domestic Affairs
Introduction In March 2025, the U.S. trade deficit surged to an unprecedented $140.5 billion, a 14% increase from the previous month and the largest monthly gap ever recorded. This dramatic widening was driven by a rush of imports as American companies raced to stockpile goods-especially pharmaceuticals-before the imposition
Economy
Introduction The Federal Reserve’s May 2025 policy meeting comes at a moment of heightened economic uncertainty for the United States. The central bank faces persistent inflation, a recent contraction in GDP, and the complex effects of President Trump’s new tariffs. Markets, businesses, and policymakers are watching closely for
Domestic Affairs
Introduction On May 6, 2025, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney arrived in Washington, D.C., for his first official meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump-a summit widely viewed as one of the most consequential and contentious in the modern history of U.S.-Canada relations. The two leaders met
Economy
Overview The U.S. services sector, a cornerstone of the national economy, demonstrated unexpected resilience and expansion in April 2025. According to the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), the Services Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) rose to 51.6, surpassing both the previous month’s reading and economists’ expectations. This marks
Domestic Affairs
Introduction In a sweeping move with far-reaching implications for the American economy, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) Antitrust Division have initiated a comprehensive review of federal regulations deemed to be anticompetitive. This initiative, announced on May 5, 2025, is a direct response to President
Domestic Affairs
On the evening of Sunday, May 4, 2025, President Donald Trump jolted the global entertainment industry and financial markets by announcing a sweeping 100% tariff on all films produced outside the United States. Framed as a measure to “save a dying Hollywood” and protect national security, the announcement immediately sent