US and China agree ‘framework’ for trade deal ahead of Xi-Trump meeting | First Thing

US President Donald Trump has announced he won't be meeting with Canada for the foreseeable future, following a significant increase in tariffs on Canadian goods. This decision comes after an anti-tariff ad campaign that invoked a quote from former President Ronald Reagan. The implications of this move could strain US-Canada relations and impact trade, making it a critical issue for both countries.

Donald Trump is currently on a five-day trip to Asia, where he met with Emperor Naruhito of Japan before discussing trade with the new Prime Minister Takaichi. This meeting is significant as it highlights the ongoing diplomatic relations between the US and Japan, especially in the context of trade negotiations. Meanwhile, back in the US, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries is addressing redistricting efforts in Illinois, indicating the political maneuvering happening domestically as well.

In a recent speech at the Kennedy Institute in Boston, President Joe Biden reflected on the 'dark days' experienced during Donald Trump's presidency. He emphasized the importance of remaining positive and hopeful for the future, despite the challenges faced under Trump's hardline policies. This address not only highlights the stark contrast between their administrations but also serves as a rallying call for Americans to unite and look forward to better days ahead.

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that he will not be meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney for the foreseeable future due to a disagreement over an anti-tariff advertisement. Both leaders are currently in Kuala Lumpur for the ASEAN summit, which highlights the importance of international dialogue and cooperation in addressing trade issues. This decision reflects ongoing tensions in trade relations and could impact discussions at the summit.

The US is projected to surpass Italy and Greece in debt levels by the end of the decade, largely due to President Donald Trump's significant tax cuts and increased defense spending. This trend raises concerns about the sustainability of US fiscal policy, especially as European nations have managed to control their spending. The implications of this growing debt could affect the US economy and its global standing, making it a critical issue for policymakers and citizens alike.

UK journalist Sami Hamdi has been detained in the US following the revocation of his visa, which was justified by unsubstantiated security concerns. This incident raises serious questions about press freedom and the influence of political pressure on journalism. It highlights the challenges journalists face when reporting on sensitive topics, particularly in a climate where their safety and rights can be compromised.

Prime Minister Carney is set to meet with China's president this week to discuss important diplomatic matters, particularly in light of the recent executions of four Canadians in China. This meeting is significant as it aims to address and potentially reset expectations between the two nations, highlighting the complexities of international relations and the need for dialogue in the face of serious incidents.

Donald Trump recently expressed a desire for a third term in office, despite the constitutional limit of two elected terms. While some have speculated about unconventional ways to extend his presidency, Trump has firmly ruled out the possibility of running for vice president in the upcoming 2028 election. This statement highlights the ongoing debate about presidential term limits and the implications of Trump's continued influence in US politics.

A recent report by MPs reveals that the Home Office has wasted billions on asylum hotels due to flawed contracts and incompetent delivery. This mismanagement has left the department struggling to meet the growing demand for asylum accommodation, raising concerns about the effectiveness of government spending and the treatment of asylum seekers in the UK.

A grooming gang consisting of four men and one woman has been sentenced for the horrific crime of raping ten women in Dundee. They lured their victims with drugs at various locations, highlighting a serious issue of exploitation and abuse in the community. This case underscores the urgent need for awareness and action against such predatory behavior, as it not only affects the victims but also raises concerns about safety and justice in society.

Fyodor Lukyanov emphasizes that any lasting peace deal regarding Ukraine must confront NATO's historical impact. He argues that without addressing the legacy of Atlanticism, negotiations will likely falter. This perspective is crucial as it highlights the complexities of international relations and the need for a comprehensive approach to peace in the region.

Scientists have reported that two vital coral species, staghorn and elkhorn, are now functionally extinct due to a devastating ocean heatwave. This collapse is significant as these corals were essential for the health of Florida's reefs, which support diverse marine life and protect coastlines. The loss of these species highlights the urgent need to address climate change and its impact on marine ecosystems.

In a recent political controversy, Keir Starmer has condemned Nigel Farage for his failure to address the racist comments made by Reform MP Sarah Pochin regarding black and Asian individuals. Farage described Pochin's remarks as 'ugly' but stopped short of labeling them as racist, attributing them to what he calls 'DEI madness.' This situation highlights ongoing tensions in UK politics surrounding race and accountability, making it crucial for leaders to take a stand against racism to foster a more inclusive society.

This week, many economists are anticipating that the Bank of Canada will lower interest rates due to mixed signals from the economy regarding inflation and employment. This potential rate cut is significant as it could influence borrowing costs for consumers and businesses, impacting spending and investment decisions across the country.