Your Week in U.S. and Global Headlines, All in One Place
If you’ve had your head down this week—working, raising kids, or just trying to avoid the circus—you’re not alone. That’s why we’re here. Every Sunday, we break down what actually happened in the U.S. and around the world. No fluff. No talking heads. Just what you need to know, and maybe a few things you wish you didn’t.
Here’s what went down.
National Headlines
Trump’s Second Term Hits 100 Days
We’ve officially made it 100 days into Donald Trump’s second go-round as president. Approval ratings are dropping, legal headaches are piling up, and his policies are setting off everything from campus occupations to foreign policy recalculations. Supporters say he’s keeping his promises. Critics say we’re watching democracy erode in real time. Both might be right.
U.S.–U.K. Trade Deal Signed, Kind Of
Trump and British PM Jonathan Hall signed a “landmark” trade deal this week, cutting tariffs on goods like steel and cars. But analysts were quick to note the deal doesn’t touch services, tech, or agriculture—and largely just patches things up after Brexit fallout and Trump’s first-term tariff wars.
Tariffs, Trade Deficit, and the China Question
The U.S. posted a record $140.5 billion trade deficit in March, prompting renewed talks with China. Trump is reportedly considering slashing tariffs from 145% down to 80% in hopes of calming inflation and avoiding a broader economic stall. Whether China plays ball remains to be seen.
May Day Protests Across the U.S.
Thousands took to the streets on May 1 to mark International Workers’ Day. The protests had a sharp edge this year, focused on immigration, labor rights, and what organizers called “rising authoritarianism.” Cities from Chicago to Portland reported large, peaceful turnouts—though several saw arrests when police tried to clear encampments.
Columbia University Protest Turns Standoff
Pro-Palestinian students at Columbia occupied the university’s main library this week, refusing to leave until the school divests from Israeli-linked companies. Police intervened after nearly 48 hours, arresting multiple students. It’s just the latest flashpoint in a nationwide wave of student activism over Gaza.
Global Headlines
A North American Pope—For Real
The Catholic Church made history this week by electing its first-ever North American pope. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, originally from Chicago but serving in Peru, is now Pope Leo XIV. Early statements suggest a focus on social justice, but critics say the Church is still dodging accountability on global abuse scandals.
India and Pakistan Clash (Again)
An attack on tourists in Kashmir triggered retaliatory Indian airstrikes on suspected militant camps in Pakistan. A U.S.-brokered ceasefire lasted just under a day. Tensions in the region are the highest they’ve been since 2019, and both governments are engaging in the usual war-of-words diplomacy.
Germany Gets a New Chancellor
Friedrich Merz was finally elected Chancellor of Germany this week after a second round of voting. The former corporate executive and conservative politician promises “economic clarity and European unity,” but critics worry about his ties to corporate interests and tough stance on immigration.
Russia Ups Its Attacks Ahead of WWII Commemoration
In the lead-up to Victory Day (Russia’s version of Memorial Day meets 4th of July), Russian forces launched a new wave of attacks on Ukraine, including drone strikes and rail sabotage. Ukraine responded by targeting key fuel depots. Western intelligence warns that more escalations are likely in the coming weeks.
Culture, Economy, and Everything Else
David Attenborough Turns 99
The voice of every nature documentary you’ve ever loved just hit 99. Tributes poured in from world leaders, scientists, and fans alike. If you’re feeling a little cynical this week, go watch a clip of him talking about sloths or coral reefs. It helps.
Black Sabbath Bows Out—for Real This Time
The godfathers of heavy metal announced a final reunion show this week. With Ozzy Osbourne’s health in serious decline, this truly looks like the last time we’ll see the original lineup together. Fans are calling it the “end of an era.” They’re not wrong.
The Fed Hesitates on Rate Cuts as Economy Sputters
Inflation is slowly cooling, but the labor market is showing cracks. The Federal Reserve is holding off on interest rate cuts for now, but economists are split on whether the delay helps or hurts. One thing is clear: The 2024 post-pandemic rebound is officially over.
The Bottom Line
The world didn’t end this week. But it didn’t exactly reassure anyone either. We’ve got political tensions rising abroad, growing discontent at home, and a general sense that the future is murkier than ever.
We’ll keep watching. You keep living.
Check back next Sunday for the next recap—or follow us on Facebook to get these stories (and the ones nobody else is telling) straight to your feed.
