Trump Administration Withdraws Compensation Fund Plan
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche announced that the Trump administration will not proceed with the $1.8 billion fund intended to compensate allies after political opposition and legal challenges. During a House committee hearing, Blanche confirmed the reversal as the administration faced pressure from Republicans who wanted assurances that the Justice Department plans were canceled before advancing funding legislation for immigration enforcement agencies.
Critics argued the fund was a corrupt payout scheme. Rep. Rosa DeLauro criticized the fund as an ‘extraordinary display of self-dealing.’ Additionally, the Justice Department will maintain Trump’s agreement with the IRS to halt investigations into his tax payments.
U.S. Military Halts Ship Running Blockade
A U.S. aircraft neutralized the engine of a seventh vessel attempting to breach the blockade of Iranian ports. The Botswana-flagged M/T Lexie ship was stopped after ignoring warnings over 24 hours. Previous halts have disabled six commercial ships while redirecting another 122 vessels.
Secretary of State Rubio Faces Congressional Scrutiny
Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s congressional appearances focused on U.S. foreign policy amid ongoing conflicts. Rubio addressed global and regional issues, including the Iran war, relations with Taiwan, and Cuban sanctions. He faced protests throughout the hearings, with some calling him a war criminal for actions in the Middle East and Latin America.
Stockpiled Birth Control’s Fate Uncertain
Rubio and other officials faced questions on a $9 million stockpile of contraceptives stored in Belgium. Due to dismantling USAID, the Trump administration left their distribution uncertain. While some supplies have been destroyed, current executive orders prevent their use or global distribution.
Rubio Comments on US Negotiations with Iran
Despite reports of ceased communications, Rubio stated ongoing dialogue with Iran over nuclear program negotiations. The administration aims to reach a satisfactory deal but faces leadership instability in Iran. Rubio clarified no sanctions relief would be offered merely for reopening the Strait of Hormuz.